Back to Burgundy 2018

Three siblings from Burgundy find themselves navigating the complexities of family and tradition when their father’s health takes a serious turn. As they come together, Jean, Juliette, and Jérémie reflect on their upbringing under the watchful eye of a father who was both dominant and controlling in the world of winegrowing. While Jérémie remained tied to the family vineyards, and Juliette chose to stay close to home, Jean took a different path. He ventured far, working in the wine industry in Chile where he met his girlfriend, Alicia, ultimately purchasing a vineyard in Australia.

His return to France comes after a decade away, marked by the bittersweet timing of his mother’s death coinciding with the birth of his son back in Australia. Mixed emotions envelop Jean as he arrives just as his father’s health deteriorates—his father passes away shortly thereafter. This journey forces Jean to confront the ghosts of his past, particularly his fraught relationship with his father and the bond with Alicia.

The narrative beautifully interweaves scenes from their childhood, the vineyards, and their family home, creating a tapestry of nostalgia and current struggles. A pivotal moment arises when their father’s passing leads to a contentious inheritance. Joint ownership of the family estate demands that the siblings come together to decide its fate, while grappling with a substantial inheritance tax that looms over them. Jean initially suggests selling the estate to settle debts in Australia, but complications arise when Jérémie’s unpleasant father-in-law makes a bid for some prime land. Eventually, the trio agrees on a leasing arrangement that satisfies everyone involved.

An unopened letter from their father unveils the truth that Jean had misunderstood—his father had loved him, contrary to all the negative feelings he held. Meanwhile, the relationship between Jean and Alicia teeters on the edge of fragility; Juliette believes there is still love between them despite their separation and takes it upon herself to reach out to Alicia. In a touching turn of events, Alicia and their son come to France later in the story, facilitating a reconciliation that sees them deciding to return to Australia together.

Furthermore, the narrative explores Jérémie’s struggles with his in-laws, his efforts to establish a living space for his family with his wife Océane and their child. As they navigate the challenges of newfound independence, the family must also contend with Juliette’s evolving romantic life amidst the annual grape and wine production cycle, culminating in the vital harvest season. Ultimately, it is revealed that the true talent for winegrowing lies with Juliette and Jean, overshadowing the older generation’s contributions.