Kelly Babineau
A life long champion of the underdog, I chose a career in public service. I have spent over 20 years as a criminal defense attorney working hard to provide a voice to the disenfranchised. But as I approached my twenty year anniversary, I felt burnt out and desperate for a change. I have been a “cork dork” since my early twenties. I have taken the classes and received the certifications. But, never in a million years, did I think I would open a wine import business. Life has a funny way of working out.
Five years ago, my husband and I were visiting friends in Bordeaux. Our friend decided it would be a treat to take us to Sauternes to visit a wine shop. This shop is owned by the Desqueyroux family, a fifth generation wine making family. We spent the afternoon enjoying their beautiful wines and talking about the business. Chrystelle Desqueyroux shared that the family had tried to export to the USA in the past, but had been unable to find an import company that would be interested in their small family winery. Well, that was practically all I needed to hear. Not long thereafter, I decided I wanted to start that import company. Thus began LBV Imports, aka La Belle Vie Shop.
It has been a wonderful experience because there is a true connection to the wine and the people. The families I represent love their vines and could never imagine any other life, and it shows in the quality of their wines. It is such a pleasure to share these delicious wines and tell their stories to a whole new audience.