For Clovis Taittinger, champagne has always been part of the family. Except, that is, for a brief period starting in 2005 when the family’s diverse holdings—including extensive interests in hotels and luxury goods such as crystal-maker Baccarat—were sold to an American investment firm. This did not sit well with his father, Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, who, within two years, was able to bring the champagne house, which the family has operated since the 1930s, back to its original patrimony. Shortly thereafter, Clovis and his sister Vitalie were asked to join the company.
Today, they are part of the house’s key leadership: Vitalie is president, while Clovis is managing director, focusing on international sales. It was something of a trial by fire for him—he was in his late 20s when he started at the company in 2007, with no previous experience in the wine or champagne industries. “You learn a few things that can be applied to every kind of situation,” he reflects. “The most important is to face the problem—to not make any stupid, short-term decisions.” The second most important lesson, he says, was that quality always pays. “You might not be the best in marketing or promotion, and so on, but if you do consistent, great stuff, you will always be relevant to consumers,” he adds.
He humorously notes that his greatest accomplishment so far is that the company is not in any worse shape than when he started working there. “What my sister and I want to leave for the next generation is that Taittinger will still be known as one of the top champagnes in the world. That’s my goal,” he says.
“It’s a very pure, very simple style,” he explains of the appeal of Taittinger champagne. “But its best quality is that you can drink a case per day, and you will always enjoy each bottle, each glass, and you will never be betrayed. Everything will be perfect.”
What is the most important quality in a leader or a manager?
To pilot the plane through tough times.
Where do you do your best work?
On the train or a plane.
If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
Any manual skill.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
I put my glasses on my nose!
What is always worth paying for?
Everything. I think it’s a matter of a person’s wish—if someone wants to buy a Ferrari, or a cup of coffee. We live in a free world, where people are free to spend their wealth the way they want. I think everything is equal, you know. I don’t like to criticise a person’s spending. We buy what we can, or what we like, and it’s fine this way.
What is your favourite thing to cook?
Quiche Lorraine.
What is your favourite luxury?
I have many, but to make a fire in the (fireplace), and to have a glass of champagne and a cigarette.
Do you like to drive or be driven?
To drive.
What’s your favourite car?
I always drive an Audi because it’s pleasant to drive and extremely reliable. So, for me, it’s like Taittinger! Driving a good car is like drinking Taittinger—it never betrays you.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Anyone and no one. My biggest inspiration is to be surprised by someone whom you’ve never met, never heard of. I think (ordinary) people can be a great source of inspiration. I don’t rely on idols.
Where is your favourite place to go on holiday?
I keep changing, you know. I like nature, and when it’s not too crowded. Anywhere between the sea and the mountains, where I can find peace, calm, and nice light.
