Paul Lapsley, the Global Wine Director at Accolade Wines, has announced his retirement and will bring his distinguished career to an end later this year.
Lapsley first joined the business with Houghton in 1987, before going on to become Group Red Winemaker in 2004 and then Chief Winemaker for Hardys in 2007, just the 20th person to hold that position.
He subsequently assumed responsibility for all winemaking operations across the business as Group Chief Winemaker before being appointed Global Wine Director in 2016.
“An industry veteran with almost 40 years of winemaking experience, Paul commands enormous respect for his vision, ambition and pure skill that has come to be expressed in some of our most prestigious and successful wines and wine brands,” said Anton van Heerden, Accolade Wines Director, Supply Chain and Operations.
“Paul can be immensely proud of his role as flagbearer for the historic Hardys brand, as well as his undiminished passion for excellent quality wine that leaves behind a formidable legacy. We wish him a long and well-earned retirement.”
Lapsley said that while he was sad to be departing the company, he would look back fondly on an incredible career.
“Pushing the boundaries and creating wines of great character and quality have continued to be a passion for me, whether following the great blending tradition of the world famous Hardys brand or introducing the premium Jack Mann range at Houghton, and I am grateful for Accolade’s support for these endeavours,” he said.
“I have made many friends through the company over the years and will miss working with a group of dedicated and driven people who are truly passionate about our portfolio.”
Lapsley’s final day with Accolade will be 30 November 2019 but van Heerden said he had agreed to extend his association with the Accolade after his retirement, allowing the business to continue to tap into his vast experience and knowledge.