Jan Boone
Jan Boone is a seasoned business leader with a passion for quality, craftsmanship and business growth, now taking on the role of co-owner of Colmant Cap Classique and Champagne. Since 2011, he has been the CEO of Lotus Bakeries Group, a global, listed, family-owned food company active in more than 60 countries around the world with a balanced portfolio in the indulgent and natural snacking segment, known for brands such as Biscoff®, BEAR®, nākd® and many more. Jan started his career in PwC’s audit department. In 2000, he moved to the pharmaceutical company Omega Pharma, where he spent five years in corporate control, reporting, and M&A, gaining valuable experience in business strategy and execution. During this period, Jan was a member of the Executive Committee and served on the Board of Directors.
In 2005, Jan joined Lotus Bakeries as General Manager and Director, where he established his reputation as a strategic thinker and dynamic leader. In 2011, Jan assumed the role of CEO of the Lotus Bakeries Group. Since 2011, Lotus Bakeries has expanded its global footprint with a turnover growth of EUR 276 million to EUR 1,063 million (2023). To date, Lotus Bakeries employs around 3,000 employees. Beyond his corporate achievements, Jan is a Shareholder and Vice President of Club Brugge and serves on the Board of Directors of Tomorrowland’s music festival and events company. He was also Chairman of the board of Animal Care Group from 2017 until June 2024. With a family legacy steeped in producing quality products and commercialising brands on a global scale, Jan is excited to apply his extensive expertise to the art of Cap Classique production, ensuring that each bottle under the Colmant brand reflects both tradition and excellence.
Isabelle Maes
Isabelle Maes brings a wealth of experience and a passion for premium products to her role as the co-owner of Colmant Cap Classique and Champagne. With a strong background in finance and management, she currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer of Lotus Bakeries Group, a global, listed family-owned food company, and as CEO of its Natural Foods pillar, focusing on the international growth of its natural snacking brands, such as BEAR®, nākd®, Kiddylicious® and TREK®. Isabelle started her career as an auditor with PwC. In 2001, she joined Barry Callebaut, a leading chocolate company, where she held various positions in finance and SAP implementations before becoming Finance Officer for Barry Callebaut Belgium in 2006. In 2014, she joined Lotus Bakeries as CFO before moving into her current role as CEO of Natural Foods (since 2017) and Chief Marketing Officer (since 2023), driving strategic growth and global marketing efforts.
In addition to her corporate responsibilities, Isabelle also sits on the Board of Directors of Van de Velde, a Belgian lingerie company. Her experience in finance, strategy, and brand development gives her a unique perspective to support Colmant’s future growth. With a strong passion for brand building, quality and craftsmanship, Isabelle is excited to bring her expertise to Colmant and contribute to the estate’s commitment to excellence and innovation.
Paul Gerber
Initially, Paul embarked on a career as a Mathematics teacher, a true passion of his. However, a transformative moment came when he received a wine course as a gift from his soon-to-be mother-in-law. It was in this course that he discovered the intriguing intersections of wine, mathematics, and chemistry—each discipline intertwining in an unexpectedly harmonious way. Shortly after marrying, Paul made the bold decision to leave his teaching career behind and immerse himself in the study of Viticulture and Oenology at Stellenbosch University.
His journey took him across renowned wine regions, where he delved into the alchemy of bubbles, completing harvests in Franciacorta (Italy), the Rhineland-Palatinate (Germany), and Le Mesnil sur Oger (Champagne, France). It was during his time in Le Mesnil sur Oger that he was afforded the invaluable opportunity to refine his skills with seasoned winemakers, deepening his expertise in Champagne and Cap Classique.
Now, as the Managing Director at Colmant Cap Classique, Paul collaborates closely with Jan and Isabelle to elevate the estate’s offerings. With a steadfast commitment to the meticulous craftsmanship required to produce exceptional Cap Classique, Paul and Kalissa expertly blend tradition with innovation, ensuring that each bottle reflects a dedication to excellence and an appreciation for the region’s unique terroir.
Kalissa De Kok
“Kalissa de Kok completed her Oenology Bacherlor’s degree at Elsenburg Agricultural Institute. During her final year of studies, she spent a lot of time with Cap Classique proffesionals (including winemaker Paul Gerber), which ultimately inspired her love for the craft of Cap Classique.
Since completing her studies in 2022, Kalissa completed harvests at different cellars, with the purpose of consolidating her understanding of Cap Classique. She is very enthusiastic to embark on this promising journey alongside Paul and the Colmant team.”
Amy Cupido
Born and raised in the heart of Franschhoek, my passion for tourism and connecting with people is part of who I am. In my role at Colmant Cap Classique, I manage imports, exports, and curate unforgettable guest experiences at our prestigious estate. While I take pride in the administrative aspects of the business, I find great joy in welcoming guests to our tasting room and sharing the essence of what Colmant represents. It’s a pleasure to guide visitors through our sparkling wine journey and introduce them to the rich story and craftsmanship behind each bottle. My commitment to exceptional service and our local heritage ensures that every guest leaves with a memorable impression of Colmant.
Schalk Basson
“I am delighted to be back at Colmant, working alongside Paul and the Boone family,” expressed Schalk. “My passion for this brand has only grown stronger during my time away, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success.” Schalk’s return promises to invigorate Colmant, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence.