Anne Duboeuf was born in Macon, France, where she was raised by her parents in the wine-growing region of Pouilly Fuissé. Her father, Guy Burrier, has been the Mayor of the village of Fuissé for 40 years.
During her high school years, Anne spent ten months in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where she lived with a family from the area. After her high school graduation, she spent a year in Alicante, Spain. Anne then embarked on her university studies of Oenology and the Business of Wine. She has been working at Le Hameau Duboeuf for 25 years.
Anne married Franck Duboeuf, the son of legendary Beaujolais and Maconnais vigneron Georges Duboeuf, in 1996. Together they have three children. Their eldest daughter is studying Law at University in France, while their son is studying Oenology and Wine Business Management. Their youngest daughter is in high school.
Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?
There is not one specific event that I can say directed me towards my career. I have always had a passion for wine and have studied oenology. Even when I was 20 years old I had already created a hypothetical project to work in an oenopark!
What about this career choice did you find most appealing?
The appeal of the wine industry is impossible for me to express in one word. I was and still am attracted by the wine itself, the base of my career. The personal interaction and communication with clients in this industry has always enthused me. I am passionate to share our culture, the Duboeuf family history and Beaujolais with each client. My daily routine is diverse and unbelievably varied, no client is the same. Interaction with our customers, enjoying an experience full of life, good food and wine is the appeal. Striving every day to provide an escape for clients and bring them into our world.
What steps did you take to begin your education or training?
I have a family background in wine and did my studies in oenology and the business of wine at school, following this I spent one year in a whisky house in Paris. Afterwards I returned home to Beaujolais to find a summer job and applied to work at the newly opened Le Hameau Duboeuf. Twenty five years later, I am still here!
Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?
I knew what I wanted to do and followed my heart. I am unbelievably lucky to be able to work with my husband, Franck Duboeuf. We encourage and stand by each other daily, providing constant support. I have a naturally strong character but, of course, I still have worries. You have to “push through” and keep going.
Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?
Everyone has doubts but I have never wanted to, or attempted to, change my career.
When did your career reach a tipping point?
My career has always been based on hard work and determination. I started at the bottom and now have reached the top. Not one event is responsible for the transition. It has been more of a gradual development throughout the years. I am always focused on the future and we need to remember that tomorrow is the most important day.
Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?
A challenge that I had to overcome is decorating Christmas shop windows for Sherry Lehmann – the prestigious wine retailer in New York City. This was something I had never done before — it is not my everyday job but decorating is one of my passions . Naturally, as the day arrived and I saw the challenge, I was scared. True to my nature, I confronted the situation, head on. The next year, I created, designed and decorated giant corkscrews for a different Sherry Lehmann display.
What single skill has proven to be most useful?
Adaptation and Imagination. To adapt oneself to the demand of each client, to confront and master each unique requirement, and always finding new ideas.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
My career is also my family; both my private and working life are connected. Family is very important to me — I love the connection between both my worlds and being able to share and work with my husband.
Any advice for others entering your profession?
Be patient.
Live your passion daily.
Believe in your dreams. Make it happen.
Share what you have, and what you love, with others.
