CHAMPAGNE PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS

Origins, history and objectives
of the Union of Great Brands and Champagne Houses
since 1882

Comte Robert-Jean de VOGUE (1896-1976)
President of the Three-Party Commission 1930-1943
President of the AVC (Champagne Viticultural Association) in 1960 and founding CIVC in 1941

 

     Born in 1896 in Ardèche, into one of the oldest families of the French aristocracy, Robert-Jean de VOGUE studied science before turning towards a military career. A man of action, he voluntarily enlisted himself at the age of 20 and was awarded the "Croix de guerre 1914-18 " (War cross medal) before continuing his career in artillery.

     Then, he left the army in order to devote his dynamism to the development of the House of Moët and Chandon. In 1930, he was asked to take over the management of this House by his brothers-in-law from Eudeville. He developed an exceptional marketing policy and in 1936, created the cuvée Dom Pérignon, whose worldwide fame remains unequalled.

     Concerned with a balanced sharing of both the efforts and the results amongst all of the sectors of the profession, he established contractual relationships with Vine-growers, who sold their grapes to the Champagne Houses. He achieved the creation of the CIVC in 1941, on fundamental bases, which still endure today.

     As an innovator of social discussion at the heart of the company and within the Champagne professions, Robert-Jean de VOGUE agreed (as early as 1930) on a "collective contract ", with the employee representatives. This was a precursor of what would later become a collective agreement (by type of business) and the basis of employee social status in France.
     His leading role was interrupted in 1943 when he was arrested by the Gestapo and deported for forced work in a labour camp despite the courageous support of the House's employees. He was liberated in 1945 by the British and regained the presidency of Moët and Chandon. He enabled the skilful diversification of the House with the purchase of Dior perfumes and establishments in The United States (Napa Valley - California) and Argentina.

     In the minds of all Vine-growers and Champagne House employees, Robert-Jean de VOGUE continues to be one of their most important historic leaders. He proved that all success depends on discussion between all of the sectors to reach a consensus, which combines their efforts towards a common aim. It is with this example that modern Champagne strives to prolong its excellent work.