Sandrine Garbay

Sandrine Garbay is a pioneering French oenologist and winemaker who served as maître de chai (head winemaker) at Château d'Yquem for 24-27 years beginning in 1998, making her the first female head winemaker at the prestigious Sauternes estate. She was recruited directly to Yquem at age 27 following her studies in oenology to oversee quality control, and subsequently became the custodian of the château's legendary Sauternes production. In May 2022, she transitioned to become Directrice Générale (General Director) of Château Guiraud, the first grand cru classé of Sauternes, where she continues to lead winemaking and oenotourism initiatives.