Two million bottles of wine destroyed in warehouse fire
80 employees evacuated after blaze breaks out at storage facilities in Bordeaux
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Two million bottles of wine are believed to have been destroyed in a huge warehouse fire in south west France.
Almost 60 firefighters were sent to tackle the blaze, which broke out across storage facility buildings in the suburb of Gironde in Bordeaux around 3pm on Tuesday.
Despite extinguishing the flames several hours later, a vast quantity of alcohol owned by the Sovex Grands Châteaux producer was consumed in the fire.
Around two million bottles were either destroyed or made “unfit” by the blaze, according to The Local news site’s French edition.
Around 80 employees were evacuated from the buildings and no injuries were reported.
The fire is thought to have started in one of the warehouse’s false ceilings, which fell onto several pallets and crates of wine.
Police have opened an investigation into the cause of the fire and the company is consulting with its insurers on the extent of the damage.
Founded in 1982, Sovex Grands Châteaux sells wines in more than 50 countries around the world.
On Thursday, French president Emmanuel Macron thanked hundreds of firefighters who helped save Notre Dame Cathedral.
During a ceremony at the Elysee presidential palace, Mr Macron said: “We’ve seen before our eyes [your] responsibility, courage, solidarity and a meticulous organisation. The worst has been avoided.”
He said the firefighters would get a medal of honour for their courage and devotion.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments