Poster art for the 2026 Week End des Grands Crus.
Read on to discover the creative universe of Benoît Aupoix, the illustrator who successfully captured the essence of Great Growths in a single poster he designed for the 20th edition of the Week-End des Grands Crus, which will take place from 5 to 7 June 2026 in Bordeaux. From preparatory sketches to the choice of colours and hidden symbols, find out how each detail tells the story of a weekend when wine meets art and passion. A unique immersion into the creation of an artwork which will leave a lasting impression far beyond the vineyards!
Can you tell us briefly about your background as an illustrator?
I am Benoit Aupoix and I have worked as an illustrator for nearly 10 years now. I live in Paris and my workshop is located near the Saint-Martin canal. I have spent several years collaborating with many brands, publishers and cultural institutions (Louis Vuitton, BMW, Angelina, etc.).
What are your main sources of inspiration (artists, artistic movements, cultures, etc.)?
My creations often evoke a fairly vintage atmosphere, without necessarily meaning to – I think this stems from my influences and what has captured my interest in art. I have always been fascinated by the curved lines of Art Nouveau and the talent of Alfons Mucha, in particular, and by the more retrofuturistic aesthetic of Syd Mead, for instance.
To create this poster, did you draw on the world of wine or on other visual references?
For this illustration, I really wanted to show the wine universe in its entirety, from production with the vineyards at the forefront, to the end consumer, represented by a group of people getting together over a glass of wine. And being a big fan of beautiful architecture, I really enjoyed depicting the magnificent Place de la Bourse to symbolise the city of Bordeaux.
Could you tell us a bit more about your working methods?
I always begin my projects with quick hand sketches to find a setting and layout I am happy with and I refine it as I go along, until I find the composition that suits me. Then, we discussed with the UGCB team to rework a couple of things before moving onto the task of colourisation.
Which elements (colours, shapes, fonts) did you choose to emphasize and why?
I really wanted to have an “enveloping” composition which gives the sensation of being amongst a group of friends, as if we were right there with them and enjoying a nice time together. Hence the choice of this colour palette which gives the impression of being “enveloped” by the soft embrace of a warm summer’s evening.
Did you encounter any difficulties when creating this poster?
The small challenge I set myself was, of course, successfully depicting both a glass of wine and a vineyard landscape at the centre of the composition. I hope it worked!
Are there any symbols or hidden details you would like the public to discover or interpret?
Connoisseurs will perhaps notice the sommelier’s badge worn by one of the characters. This a nod to those who promote the world of wine.
In your opinion, how does this poster reflect the spirit of the Week-End des Grands Crus?
I wanted to showcase the spirit of conviviality and sharing which this event brings to mind and to make people want to discover the Bordeaux wine region!
If you had to sum up what this illustration represents for you in a single word, what would it be?
Sharing, culture and wine, all in moderation, of course!
Will we have the pleasure of seeing you in Bordeaux for the Week-End des Grands Crus from 5 to 7 June 2026?
While I enjoy wine, I believe that my wine knowledge could be developed further, and I would therefore be delighted to learn more!
Where can we see more of your work (website, social media, exhibitions)?
You can find my work on my Instagram page @benoitaupoix, on my website www.benoitaupoix.com and at the Slow Galerie in Paris.
We hope we will see many of you at the 20th edition of the Week-End des Grand Crus in Bordeaux, from 5 to 7 June 2026!
Book your places now on ugcb.net!
