June 26, 2026
At Château d’Issan, a Margaux 1855 Classified Growth, great wines are first and foremost the result of the daily dedication of the women and men who care for the vineyard. Among them, Kevin Dupuy represents a new generation of passionate wine professionals, trained within the estate itself. After earning a vocational diploma in Viticulture and Oenology, followed by a work-study Higher National Diploma (BTS) at Château d’Issan, he joined the team as a permanent employee. Combining technical expertise, keen observation and deep respect for nature, he shares his perspective on a demanding yet deeply rewarding profession.
You started at Château d’Issan during your BTS apprenticeship before joining the estate full-time. What made you want to stay and build your career here?
“I grew up in the world of wine. From an early age, I was surrounded by people working in the wine industry, which allowed me to discover this environment very young. I always knew I wanted to pursue this profession. After completing a vocational diploma in Viticulture and Oenology, I joined Château d’Issan as part of a work-study BTS programme, eager to discover a new estate and broaden my experience within a Classified Growth. What struck me from the moment I arrived was the strong family spirit shared by the teams. Here, everyone works towards the same goal: caring for the vines and helping each vintage reach its full potential. That sense of teamwork, solidarity and commitment to excellence naturally made me want to continue my journey at Issan. Having grown up among vineyards, I already felt at home in this environment. But what continues to impress me today is the beauty of Château d’Issan itself and the unique character of the estate. Its centuries-old history, its walled vineyard, its iconic architecture and the exceptional setting in which we work give our profession a very special dimension. It makes me proud to contribute, in my own way, to the life of such a historic estate.”
What do you enjoy most about your role today as a vineyard worker and tractor operator?
What I enjoy most is working in harmony with nature and observing how it evolves throughout the seasons. Every time of year brings its own challenges, tasks and opportunities to learn. Spring is my favourite season, when the vines awaken and soil cultivation begins again. It is a time when technical precision is essential. As a tractor operator, we must adapt every intervention to preserve the soils, respect the vines and ensure the highest quality of work in each plot. Nature is also full of surprises. No two vintages are ever the same. Constantly adapting to changing conditions is what makes this profession so stimulating. Every year brings new experiences and encourages us to keep improving.”
What message would you like to share with a young person considering a career in viticulture?
“The world of wine is fascinating because it allows you to follow every stage of a wine’s creation, from working the soil right through to the finished bottle. It is a highly varied profession that calls for a wide range of skills. You need to understand how the vine works, observe its environment, master machinery and equipment, and also take an interest in the winemaking process. Every stage is different and requires precision. I believe it is a sector full of opportunities for people who are motivated and curious. You are constantly learning, both from nature and from the people around you. It is a demanding profession, but also an incredibly rewarding one when you see the results of your work reflected in the wines you help produce.”
MENU
