I just learned today that Melvyn and Janie left us last month. I’m deeply saddened.

I knew them well way back in the day - in the 1970ies in the South of France when we were all young! Masterwines then was based in Aix en Provence and I joined them there as Finance Director. It was a small happy team that they created. We lived in each other’s pockets, working and playing together hard, and all centered around the lovely Mas that was their home (and the company’s office as well for a lot of the time). Aix was a magical place to live, and it was a magical time for us. I had so many wonderful experiences and it left me with many enduring happy memories. I particularly recollect many occasions sitting together shaded from the hot Provençale sun by their pool often with Sophie, Amy, Charlie and my daughter frolicking near naked in the water together. Happy days.

I never wanted it to end but, sadly, it had to when we were forced to re-locate the company and we all went our different ways – they to the US and I eventually to Asia. So, we were rarely able to meet up thereafter.

I will remember them and their family for the rest of my days.

I'm Gutted. I'm in the wine biz. and have worked with these two beautiful people for a couple decades.

just cannot say enough how wonderful they were! 

They went out on their own terms! Rock on Mel and Jamie!

Love to you Charlie!

-martin