Toronto wine importer Nicholas Pearce reflects on the life, spirit, and impact of a winemaking icon gone too soon
The global wine community was dealt a heavy blow with the passing of Nicolas Potel, who died unexpectedly on June 27 at the age of 56. One of Burgundy’s most dynamic and forward-thinking winemakers, Potel was not only an ambassador for terroir and tradition, but a bridge between the old world and the new generation of wine lovers around the world—including right here in Canada.
Best known as the founder of Domaine de Bellene and the négociant label Maison Roche de Bellene, Potel made a name for himself by championing sustainable practices, minimal intervention winemaking, and an unshakable commitment to quality. His wines—sourced from some of Burgundy’s oldest vines and most storied appellations—were as much a reflection of place as they were of the man himself: confident, authentic, and charismatic.
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For Nicholas Pearce, a Toronto-based wine importer who worked closely with Potel for over a decade, the loss is deeply personal.
“Nicolas’ legacy extends far beyond his exceptional wines,” Pearce says. “He was a true pioneer—known for blending traditional Burgundian techniques with modern, environmentally conscious practices. His commitment to quality, transparency, and terroir-driven winemaking earned him widespread recognition and admiration.”
Nicolas Potel (left) and Nicholas Pearce. (Photo courtesy of Nicholas Pearce)
Their relationship began in 2009, when the two were introduced at Vinexpo Bordeaux by mutual friend and fellow Burgundian winemaker Patrick Piuze. Pearce had just launched his own boutique wine agency, and Potel had recently started Domaine de Bellene. The connection was immediate.
“We clicked right away,” Pearce recalls. “I began importing his wines into Ontario shortly after, and in fact, Ontario became his first major export market. That meant a lot to him, and to me.”
That early partnership evolved into a deep friendship and meaningful collaboration. Potel quickly became a beloved presence in the Ontario wine scene, visiting the province often, where he embraced the opportunity to meet sommeliers, attend wine dinners, and connect with consumers. He was a frequent guest at Niagara’s International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration (i4C), participating in the event eight times—more than any other international guest.
“He loved coming here,” Pearce says. “He believed in building genuine connections with people, whether it was over a shared love of chardonnay or just good conversation over a bottle of wine.”
Nicolas Potel with members of the Nicholas Pearce Wines team. (Photo courtesy of Nicholas Pearce)
Back in Burgundy, Pearce and his team were regularly welcomed at Potel’s winery in Beaune, where the winemaker offered immersive educational experiences—sharing not just technical knowledge, but a passion for the stories behind each vineyard and vintage.
Potel was no stranger to the spotlight. As the son of renowned winemaker Gérard Potel of Domaine de la Pousse d’Or, Nicolas was born into Burgundy’s winemaking elite. But he forged his own path, first with Maison Nicolas Potel, and later by launching his own labels after parting ways with corporate ownership. His philosophy was about respecting old vines, practicing organic and biodynamic farming, and letting each wine speak for itself.
And while his wines were serious, his personality was joyfully unfiltered. He was known for his charm, wit, and boundless generosity—often turning what could have been ordinary business into memorable moments.
Nicolas Potel (far right) during one of his many visits to the i4C event, held each year in Niagara. (Photo courtesy of Nicholas Pearce)
“I have many fond memories of our time together, but one that stands out in particular was when he visited me about 10 years ago,” recalls Pearce. After a packed schedule of meetings and events, he suggested we cancel the remaining meetings and spend the day indulging in champagne and spa treatments at the Ritz Carlton. It was a brilliant idea that I will always treasure.”
Potel’s personal connection to Pearce grew even deeper when his son Alphonse came to Canada in 2018 to intern with the Nicholas Pearce Wines team. Pearce remembers it as a full-circle moment—proof of the trust and respect they had built over the years. “Nicolas was proud of Alphonse, and I was honoured to play a small role in supporting his next generation. We’re committed to continuing that support in any way we can.”
To honour Potel’s memory, Pearce is offering a special en primeur promotion on the 2023 vintage of Domaine de Bellene through the LCBO’s Vintages Shop Online Special Offers—a vintage that Potel himself had been particularly proud of. In a characteristically generous move, he had rolled back prices to 2018 levels, urging people to enjoy the wines, not just collect them.
“Nicolas wanted this vintage to be celebrated,” Pearce says. “I encourage everyone to raise a glass—to his talent, his spirit, and his unforgettable friendship.”
Nicolas Potel is survived by his family, his friends, and a world of wine lovers who are better for having known him.
