Ramblings of Artisanal Libations - Antonio Badan: Un Hombre de Verdad

Seeking a better understanding of that illusive enigma—simple and ethereal— which has inspired human beings to ponder and pillage.

To dive into the timeless and delectable dichotomy—that which unites farmers, philosophers and creators. And, that which delivers us back to, while reminding us the importance of our mother earth.

Antonio Badan: Un Hombre de Verdad

I am deeply saddened to report that Dr. Antoine Badan—a man of almost mythical proportions to anyone who knew him—has passed away. So, if you’re lucky enough to own Mogor-Badan wine, I would suggest drinking it tonight in his honor.

This year has been unbelievably difficult for the family—consummate activists in all matters of the environment and their beloved Valle de Guadalupe. A few months ago, Antonio’s mother passed away—it was her husband who brought la Virgen de Guadalupe to the Notre Dame in Paris. She used to tell the story of one-hundred charros lining Rue de Rivoli, in procession to the church.

Many will remember him for having mounted every aspect of the winemaking process himself, from crushing the grapes to pasting on the labels, which he designed using type from an old print shop in Paris. Others will praise him for bringing the quixotic passagère clandestine Chasselas grape to the Americas. Friends and colleagues will celebrate his vast contributions to oceanography and those to his community. But those who knew him will remember him most for his unbending integrity. With him he carried the revolutionary phrase “Por un Valle de Verdad” every day of his life—he lived it and breathed it proudly as a consciousness.

Antonio leaves el Mogor in the keeping his beautiful sister, Natalia, and her children who will miss him dearly.