Échanson Göran Amnegård’s remarkable journey is defined by an insatiable curiosity and a fearless embrace of life’s opportunities. Though initially indifferent to food, a pivotal moment at the age of 13 set him on his culinary path.

Using all his savings, Göran purchased The Great Cookbook of French Cuisine. He became captivated by an image of a perfectly boned quail from a renowned French restaurant. Determined to master the skill, he resourcefully practised on blissfully asleep seagulls. An early testament to commitment and ingenuity!

Graduating in economics, Göran’s career took a significant turn when he was appointed Trade Secretary to the Swedish Trade Council in Canada, a posting that extended to nearly two decades. Immersed in Canadian culture, he formed strong ties with indigenous communities and earned a place in the kitchens of the country's finest restaurants.

There, Göran cultivated a deep passion for cooking, creating distinctive and delicious dishes that won him Canada’s Chef of the Year not once, but twice. Göran’s affection for Canada endures to this day, symbolised by the Canadian flag stitched proudly onto the collar of his chef’s jacket. He also embarked on a successful venture as a berry and mushroom entrepreneur, with his indigenous friends becoming trusted employees.

Upon returning to Sweden, Göran founded Blaxsta Vingård, the world’s northernmost vineyard, encompassing fields, forests, multiple buildings, a kitchen, and a restaurant. His celebrated Ice Wine has garnered international acclaim, a testament to his pioneering spirit.

Today, Göran is embarking on a new chapter, turning his full attention to the world of wine. His latest investment is not a grand château but a modest 1.2 hectares in southern Champagne. Göran dreams of recreating Champagne as it was crafted in the 18th century. He focuses on reviving the historic Arbane Blanc grape, a labour-intensive varietal that rewards dedication with exquisitely complex, elegant aromas. From his first harvest, just over 1,200 bottles of “Origine”, a pure Arbane Blanc Champagne, have been bottled. Göran is delighted with this promising start.

Food remains ever-present in his life. “I never leave food behind” Göran asserts. He continues to host grand dinners, often aided by his friend and fellow Chaîne member Carl Jan Granqvist, who famously has connections at the highest levels, including the Swedish royal family. Through Carl Jan, Göran was commissioned to cater for Princess Christina’s private birthday celebration, a joyous occasion where laughter filled both the dining room and the kitchen.

It was also Carl Jan who helped inspire another of Göran's initiatives: involving the winners of the Young Chef of the Year and Young Sommelier of the Year competitions in hosting the Gastronomic Academy’s annual dinner, attended by all 18 members with the King at the helm. Göran hopes this new tradition will continue.

Göran’s dreams continue to expand. He imagines an oyster bar modelled after those in London or a grand apartment where guests move from champagne reception to formal dining, concluding in a library with coffee. Thus following the finest traditions of elegant entertaining. If there is room for 30 guests, Göran is in his element. It’s his speciality for sure.

When not hosting or dreaming up new concepts, Göran remains actively involved with the sommelier association. He organises competitions, sits on judging panels, and arranges exclusive international wine tours, with Chaîne members given priority access.

His enduring connection with Canadian berry and mushroom pickers remains a cherished memory. It’s led to innovative adventures, including sourcing fresh vanilla from São Tomé in Africa. At home, he champions Swedish produce, crafting berry beverages and exciting new flavour infusions like sloe blossom vinegar.

Always open to the ‘new’ Göran embodies the spirit of action and creativity. What the future holds remains a delightful mystery even to Göran himself. “Suddenly it happens” he says with a smile, “and then I'm on”. For sure Göran’s the man who makes it happen!

Catarina Offe
Conseiller Gastronomique

Photos courtesy of Markus Amnegård and Catarina Offe