JOURNEY HOST
Over four decades across the négociant and winemaking worlds, including leading CBVG, one of the region’s foremost négociants.
A prominent figure in the Bordeaux wine trade, Christophe began his career in fine wine in the early 1980s, later founding The Wine Merchant, a firm that continue to be a significant force in the global distribution of fine and rare wines.
In 2020, he turned his focus fully to his own estates, including Château Gigault and Château Belle Coline, where he continues to make award-winning wines.
Working alongside respected winemaker Stéphane Derenoncourt, his wines have been recognized for elevating the Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux appellation, often cited as one of the region’s most promising, and underappreaciated appelations.
Throughout the program, he will host and guide guests, offering insight and access that extend beyond traditional visits.
UOVO WINE Team
Jillian Mueller
Jillian Mueller is Chief of Staff at UOVO Wine, where she oversees strategic initiatives, including the company's Collectors' Journey program. She is passionate about creating exceptional experiences that bring collectors closer to the people, places, and stories behind the world's great wines. Before joining UOVO, Jillian spent ten years as a litigator in private practice, and considers the transition from courtroom to cellar to be a significant upgrade. Jillian holds a WSET Level 3 with Merit Award in Wines, and is thrilled to welcome our guests to Bordeaux.
Patrick McAteer
Patrick McAteer is Head of Sales at UOVO Wine, where he leads business development across the company's storage facilities nationwide. Before joining UOVO, Patrick spent more than two decades in fine wine wholesale distribution at Republic National Distributing Company, building portfolios, managing supplier relationships, and leading sales teams all while working closely with the producers, importers, and allocations that define the fine wine market. He holds the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and has taught WSET Level 2 and Level 3 courses, guiding more than 1,000 candidates to successful certification. On this Collectors' Journey, Patrick brings the trade insider's view of how Bordeaux reaches the market, an educator's depth at the tasting table, and a genuine enthusiasm for sharing both.
Leah Hammer
Leah Hammer has built a career spanning more than 20 years in the global secondary market for fine and rare wine. A former auctioneer, she combines experience in auctions, retail, and private client sales to advise collectors on acquisitions, consignments, valuation, and collection strategy. She holds the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines with Distinction, and her expertise includes a focus on the factors that drive long-term value. Leah lives in Chicago with her husband and two teenagers. When she's not talking about wine, you'll find her training for a race, reading thick novels, cooking for family and friends, or enjoying a great bottle of Bordeaux.