Jonathan Alphandery

Planque’s story begins over 10 years ago, when founder Jonathan Alphandery first began cellaring wine. Born in Paris, Jon’s interest in wine developed during his time spent in Australia through friendships with sommeliers, importers, and restaurateurs, allowing him to begin creating a unique cellar for sought after minimal intervention wines. You can probably see Jon rummaging around the cellar at Planque or entertaining guests and members at Planque events.

Read more in his twelve question case study below.

1. You're handed a wine list, what do you do?

I have bionic eyes to scan the vintages as I will always look for something with bottle age. I also go through the Champagne section, looking for a good pick. I love to start a meal with bubbles!

2. How do you know the wine you're drinking is good?

It is if it makes my dining companions - and myself - smile.

3. What is something fascinating you’ve been told over lunch?

Something about biodynamics that I can’t remember exactly, but that was fascinating. It’s a topic I love to hear about, especially by people much smarter than me!

4. In whose company do you most enjoy drinking wine?

I have a crew of like-minded drinkers in Paris and Switzerland I love to share epic bottles with.

5. Can you describe your ideal combination of wine, music, and setting?

I think it would have to be L’Anglore Tavel and some Serge Gainsbourg at sunset in Marseille.

6. What sort of food would you add to the equation?

Something fried and salty.

7. What is the most memorable bottle of wine you’ve drank?

I think my first taste of Overnoy Vin Jaune, given to me by great friend and wine mentor Andrew Guard, was probably up there. But there has been many, I am sure I am forgetting some other ones.

8. Where did you drink it?

At The Dolphin in Sydney, a pub that did wine very well, for a party where a chef friend cooked.

9. Is there a characteristic you look for in a wine and in a friend?

I like them to be reliable, even though I can take a bit of variation in wine, much less in friends.

10. What is your approach to drinking?

Drink what you love with some food you love, no need for fussy pairings or things like that.

11. Do you apply this approach in other aspects of life?

Absolutely! Don’t overthink it, if it feels good, it’s probably right.

12. What shall we open next?

What about some Champagne from Emmanuel Brochet, maybe Les Hauts Chardonnays? I love his wines!

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