Winemaker Philippe Ganichaud Dies in Accident at Château Cassemichère

Philippe Ganichaud, a respected winemaker from the Nantes region, died in an accident on Thursday, September 18, at Château Cassemichère in La Chapelle-Heulin. According to local authorities, Ganichaud fell into an underground vat on the estate. The exact circumstances of the fall are still unclear. The gendarmerie has opened an investigation, and an autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death.

Ganichaud was 53 years old. He had a varied career before joining the family wine business. He was once a high-level handball player and later worked as a dental technician. In 2005, his father Daniel purchased Château Cassemichère after a career in industry. Philippe then earned a technical degree in viticulture and oenology and became involved in running the estate.

François Robin, communications manager for the Nantes Wine Federation, said that news of Ganichaud’s death came as a shock to the local wine community. Robin described him as warm and humble, noting that he was well-liked among his peers.

Château Cassemichère is known for its focus on wine tourism. Under Daniel Ganichaud’s leadership, the estate expanded its activities to include group visits and event rentals for weddings and seminars. In recent years, the business entered into a partnership with Ackerman, a major wine trading house. This began with commercial collaboration and, for the past two harvests, included a lease agreement for vineyard operations.

The accident has left many in the Nantes vineyard community stunned. As investigations continue, colleagues and friends remember Philippe Ganichaud for his dedication to winemaking and his approachable nature.