Gérard Basset dies – terrible news after a long fight against cancer

Gérard tasting @the Decanter World Wine Awards

Terribly sad news that Gérard Basset MW, MS (born 1957) died this morning. He had been fighting oesophagus cancer since the autumn of 2017. A year later it was revealed that Gérard was terminally ill. 

Despite his numerous achievements both as a sommelier – Meilleur Sommelier du Monde 2010, hotelier – a founder of Hotel du Vin,  – there was no side to Gérard. He was a great guy, modest and always friendly.

My sincere condolences to Nina and family.  

See also post on Les 5 du Vin and in The Drinks Business. Another tribute – Anthocyanes – Yohan Castaing.
 

Gérard Basset MW MS: get well quickly!

 Gérard judging at the Decanter World Wine Awards

I was shocked and saddened when I was told in confidence that Gérard Basset is having treatment for cancer. Now Gérard's wife Nina has bravely blogged about Gérard's illness, I am able to wish Gérard a full, speedy recovery and that the treatment and subsequent operation are successful. 

Nina's blog:

Keep Calm and Carry on here at TerraVina
November 14, 2017

'whilst we deal with the recent news that sadly Gerard is also battling an aggressive cancer, for which he is undergoing immediate and urgent treatment, with a major operation to follow, hopefully in the Spring.'

Finding humorous moments amongst the challenges here at TerraVina
November 22, 2017

Gérard has achieved many things – including former World Champion Sommelier, Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, a founder of the Hotel du Vin chain and now with Nina the proprietor of Hotel Terravina. Details here and here. 

However, for me the best thing about Gérard is that he is so friendly, and modest. It is a real pleasure and privilege to work alongside him at the Decanter World Wine Awards. 

Delighted that Gérard is very positive: 'I am positive and so are my consultants.  I am treating this situation like taking the MW; To WIN!'

Gérard get well quickly, please.  

 From the decanter.com website