After a professional wander through various aspects of the business of wine, Jean-Michel Valette is currently chairman of Huneeus Vintners in Napa and a director of Fine+Rare in the UK. Previously, he has been CEO of Franciscan Estates and Managing Director of Robert Mondavi winery. Outside the wine industry he has been chair of Peet's Coffee & Tea, lead director of The Boston Beer Company and owner of DripDrop Hydration.

When not on the phone or in front of a screen, Jean-Michel can be found in the kitchen, on a mountain, fishing in a river or otherwise enjoying nature’s gifts.

Within the IMW Jean-Michel has been an educator, examiner, council member and honorary officer and chair of the MW exam and education board.

Primary area(s) of work: Strategy

Industry sector(s): Agency/Importer, Business owner, Fine and rare wines auctions, Marketing, Wine business strategy, Wine judge

Wine styles: Fine and rare wines

Wine region expertise: California, France, Rhone

Market expertise: France, North America

Specialisms: Acquisition of vineyards, Economics of wine production, Branding, Direct to consumer, Financial and commercial structures, Investment strategies, Wine judging