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Why did you become an oenologist?
When I was doing my military service, a friend of mine did an internship in Bordeaux. He loved it and I decided to do one too. And I fell in love with wine.
What made you decide to come to Turkey?
I came here in 1991. There was a French oenologist at Kavaklıdere wines and I took his place. I never planned to stay here, but now I cannot imagine leaving.
What do you think of Turkish wine?
Turkish wine has not yet made a global name for itself, but it has potential. The most important area that needs to be developed is viniculture. The vineyards are still in the hands of villagers who know nothing about winemaking. However, all the winemakers are gradually planting vineyards. That will help to improve quality.
Can Turkish wines become trendy one day?
Yes, easily. That's because you can grow every kind of grape in Turkey. Also, Turkey is known as the birthplace of wine. Turkey can produce high quality wine, but it will take some time.
Which grapes can be grown in Turkey?
In Elazığ, we at Mey grow Öküzgözü and Boğazkere grapes, which come from the region. However, Merlot and Shiraz grapes could easily be grown here as well. Wonderful Boğazkere grapes are grown in Ergani Çermik, which could also grow Shiraz grapes. Cappadocia is cold, and 1300 metres above sea level. Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and maybe Kalecik Karası grapes would grow well there. Bodrum and Marmaris are too hot. But Çanakkale is a great place. Mey may open a factory there.
Why do you think wine has become increasingly popular over the past few years?
There's something called the French paradox: they eat like mad but they don't get heart disease. That's because they drink wine with their meals. Recent research shows that wine is better for you. Wine goes very well with Turkish food and has a lot of potential in Turkey. It could soon become a real competitor to rakı.
