Bekkers Wine’s co-founder and winemaker Emmanuelle Bekkers has been appointed a Chevalier (Knight) De l’Ordre National du Mérite Agricole by the French Government, with the honour conferred by the Secretary-General of the Élysée Palace, Monsieur Pierre-André Imbert.
She received this distinction in recognition of her contribution to enhancing the reputation of French wine and strengthening ties between the French and Australian wine communities.
Established in 1883, the Ordre National du Mérite Agricole recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to French agriculture.
It is one of France’s highest honours, second only to the Légion d’Honneur, the nation’s premier award for military and civil service, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802.
Emmanuelle has lived in Australia since 1996, working two vintages each year, one in Australia and one in France.
She founded Bekkers Wine with her husband, Australian viticulturist Toby Bekkers in 2010 with the purpose of creating a fine wine emblem for McLaren Vale.
Emmanuelle continues to maintain links with her homeland by making her white wines in Chablis and satisfying her long-held ambition to place her McLaren Vale wines on the tables of many feted Paris restaurants; celebrated with Michelin stars and other accolades.
These links enable her to educate both French and Australian wine professionals about the delights of the wonderful wine produced in both countries.
“When I began my studies in winemaking 34 years ago, I could never have imagined that my love for wine would lead me to receive one of France’s highest civilian honours,” Emmanuelle said.
“It has been a great pleasure to champion the traditions and savoir-faire of French winemaking in Australia, where these values are embraced with respect, ambition and innovation.
“I am fortunate to be part of two great winemaking cultures and proud to serve as a bridge between them.”
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