Gilles originates from Burgundy where he grew up amongst a wine family in Cluny. His studies and subsequent travels took him through renowned wine regions, including Bordeaux and Languedoc in France, as well as Chile and Tuscany globally. He was also involved with the Institut Francais du Gout, an educational initiative, before returning to Burgundy's wine cellars. 

In 2001, Gilles moved to Victoria, Australia, where he spent 15 years developing the Sutton Grange winery, along with Bespoke Brothers in 2009, which later evolved into Bertrand Bespoke. Additionally, he launched Maidenii vermouth in 2011 and maison LAPALUS in 2015.