Alexis Lichine

Alexis Lichine was a Russian-born wine writer and entrepreneur known for revolutionizing the rosé wine market. After inheriting wine properties in Bordeaux, he moved to Provence and purchased Château d’Esclans in 2006. There, he collaborated with renowned winemaker Patrick Léon to create Whispering Angel, a dry, pale rosé that gained immense popularity, especially in the United States. Lichine's innovative approach to marketing and branding, particularly through the use of Instagram and distinctive bottle designs, helped establish Provence rosé as a global phenomenon, leading to his eventual sale of Château d’Esclans to LVMH for approximately €140 million in 2019.