October 29, 2025 — Riding the strong momentum of its brands in the United States, the Gérard Bertrand Group announces the creation of a dedicated U.S. Board to further accelerate growth, strengthen partnerships, and ensure operational excellence across the market.
“The creation of this Board reflects our long-term commitment to the U.S. market and to our partners,” said Gérard Bertrand, Founder and President of Gérard Bertrand Group. “We are investing in talent and strategy to sustain our momentum and accelerate our growth. The United States represents both a key market and an inspiring place to share our vision of sustainable fine wines.”
“This new Board gives us the means to go further, faster — strengthening our partnerships, supporting our distributors, retail and on premise customers and sharing the excellence of Gérard Bertrand wines with even more American consumers,” said Mélanie Bacou, Executive Vice President Americas at Gérard Bertrand.
Bringing together three seasoned industry leaders, the Board will reinforce Gérard Bertrand’s strategic vision and execution in one of its fastest-growing international markets.
New Appointments
Ted Kavana joins the Group in November 2025. A seasoned brand builder and beverage industry visionary, Kavana brings over 30 years of experience from E.&J. Gallo Winery and Constellation Brands (STZ). Known for his category-management expertise and strong relationships with major national retailers, he will accelerate Gérard Bertrand’s footprint in the U.S. market—connecting trade and consumers to the craftsmanship and passion behind the wines.
Jean-Jacques Dubau joined in January, 2025, after 25 transformative years with Campari Group, where he helped build some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Campari and Aperol. During his eight years in North America, Dubau spearheaded the explosive rise of the Spritz phenomenon. He now brings his global-brand vision and innovation expertise to strengthen Gérard Bertrand’s international growth and culture of excellence.
Laurent Cosson, appointed Chief Marketing Officer in July, 2025, brings over 20 years of global-brand leadership at Rémy Cointreau. Cosson ensures strategic alignment between the Group’s worldwide brand vision and its North-American business, working closely with Bacou to drive long-term brand equity and market performance.
A Strong Commitment to the U.S. Market
Gérard Bertrand reaffirms its strong commitment to the U.S. market and to American consumers’ enthusiasm for signature wines such as Cote des Roses, Gris Blanc, Orange Gold and the promising La Grande Bleue, as well as the Group’s biodynamic estate wines—recognized worldwide as both remarkable wines and iconic wine destinations.
About Gérard Bertrand Group
Headquartered in Narbonne, France, with offices in Dallas, Texas. Mélanie Bacou leads a team of 20 professionals driving the Group’s expansion in the U.S.
The Gérard Bertrand Group is a global leader in biodynamic viticulture.
A pioneer in rosé, natural, organic, and orange wines, the Group owns 17 estates (2,300 acres) across the South of France, producing award-winning wines that embody the Mediterranean Art de Vivre and a deep commitment to sustainability.
The Group also partners with Jon Bon Jovi and Jesse Bongiovi, producing Hampton Water and Hampton Water Bubbly, wines that embody a shared vision of friendship, authenticity, and the art of living.
In the United States, Gérard Bertrand proudly partners with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (SGWS) across 33 states and collaborates with top regional distributors including MS Walker, Opici, Fedway, Martignetti, United, Johnson Brothers, Great Lakes, Bommarito, General Beverage, and Best Brands. Earlier this year, Gérard Bertrand received the Lifetime Achievement Award from SGWS in Miami, presented by longtime partners Wayne Chaplin and Mel Dick.
