Martine Saunier was born in Paris on January 17, 1934. She spent part of her childhood in occupied Paris during World War II and at her aunt’s farm in Burgundy, where she developed a connection to wine. She later honed her English while working as an au pair in London before returning to Paris to work for British Airways and the Tunisian Consul General.
In 1964, she moved to the U.S. after marrying a San Francisco radiologist, settling in Mill Valley and becoming a stepmother to two boys, including future musician Huey Lewis. Her career in wine began at Chrissa Imports, a Bay Area wine importer.
Breaking Barriers in the Wine Industry
Saunier entered the male-dominated wine industry at a time when women rarely held influential positions. She was the first woman to import Burgundy wines into the U.S., discovering and promoting now-legendary producers like Henri Jayer, Maison Leroy, and Chateau Rayas.
Her business acumen and determination helped her gain the trust of French vintners, many of whom had never sold their wines to a woman before. Greg Castells, who later bought her company, noted that Saunier had the courage and tenacity to succeed in an industry that was not welcoming to women at the time.
In 1969, while representing Chrissa Imports, Saunier visited Chateau Rayas and was so impressed by their wines that she purchased 50 cases at a then-high price of $2.50 per bottle. Her employer was hesitant, so she personally sold the stock through her husband’s doctor friends and a growing network of wine aficionados.
This success led her to start her own business, Martine’s Wines, in 1979. She built a reputation for selecting high-quality wines and introducing them to American consumers, often through direct sales and newsletters.
Saunier’s approach to selling wine was direct and uncompromising. She was known to walk into restaurants and wine shops unannounced, insisting owners taste her selections.
Though sometimes perceived as intimidating, her instinct for exceptional wines was undeniable. She built strong relationships with Bay Area wine professionals and gained a reputation as an iconic figure in the food and wine scene. Sunday lunches at her San Rafael home, with a select group of guests, became highly sought-after invitations.
A Trailblazing Legacy: Martine Saunier’s Impact on Wine and Film
After selling Martine’s Wines in 2012 to Greg Castells, Saunier embarked on a new venture in filmmaking. She produced and starred in a trilogy of wine documentaries: A Year in Burgundy (2013), A Year in Champagne (2014), and A Year in Port (2016).
These films provided an insider’s look into the world of fine wine production, further cementing her influence in the industry. Her passion for wine continued through her involvement with organizations such as Les Dames d’Escoffier and the American Institute of Wine & Food.
Saunier remained active in the wine world until her final years. She received France’s prestigious Officier du Mérite Agricole award twice in recognition of her contributions to the wine industry. Even after her diagnosis with lung cancer, she celebrated her 90th birthday by traveling through France, visiting her favorite restaurants and wineries.
Before her passing, she donated her extensive wine collection to benefit Doctors Without Borders and established a scholarship fund for young women in the wine industry to study in Burgundy.
Martine Saunier passed away at the age of 91 on February 4, 2024. She is survived by her stepsons, Jeffrey Cregg and Huey Lewis, and her godson, Charles Limido. A celebration of her life is planned for April 13 at the San Francisco Ferry Building.
Through her fearless approach to business, impeccable palate, and dedication to excellence, she left an indelible mark on the American wine industry and will be remembered as a trailblazer who forever changed the way Americans appreciate fine French wines.