Remembering Martine Saunier (1934-2025): Her Life Through Her Own Words

On February 9, 2025, the wine world mourned the passing of Martine Saunier, an iconic figure and the first American female wine importer in modern times. Known simply as "Martine," she made a profound impact over her 50-year career, importing some of the greatest wines from regions like Burgundy and the Rhône Valley. She was instrumental in bringing the renowned Henri Jayer and Château Rayas to the U.S. market and was honored with prestigious titles, including Officier du Mérite Agricole and Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur.

Born in Paris in 1934, Martine’s early years were marked by the turbulence of World War II. Raised in a family deeply affected by the aftermath of the First World War, she grew up listening to adults rather than playing with children. Her father’s war injuries derailed his architectural ambitions, forcing the family into financial struggles. The school years were fraught with tension, marked by the looming threat of German occupation, deaths of friends, and the scarcity of food during the war.

Martine spent her childhood summers in Macôn, Burgundy, where she actively participated in wine harvests starting at the age of 11. She fondly recalled the camaraderie of vineyard work, the joy of shared meals, and the firsthand experience of winemaking, which would influence her future career.

Upon reaching adulthood, her desire for independence led her to the United Kingdom on her 21st birthday, where she juggled various jobs while eventually landing a position at Japan Airlines, where she managed significant responsibilities despite facing gender discrimination. After moving to California in 1964, she sought to bring quality French wines to the U.S., but found the local offerings disappointing.

In pursuit of her passion, Martine began to explore small producers in France, leveraging her corporate experience in PR to achieve success as an importer. Her charm and expertise proved invaluable, and she successfully built relationships with esteemed winemakers. By 1979, she launched Martine’s Wines, curating an esteemed portfolio that would shape American palates for decades.

Martine’s career was defined by her dedication to showcasing authentic wines. She made it her mission to work only with producers who valued quality over quantity and shunned excessive chemistry in winemaking. Her influence extended beyond mere sales; she fostered a greater appreciation for wine among American consumers, urging respect for traditional methods.

With her passing at the age of 91, the wine community honors Martine Saunier’s remarkable journey—from the vineyards of Burgundy to the forefront of the American wine industry, leaving a legacy that inspires future generations of wine enthusiasts and professionals.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!