Highly Collectible Bottles

Wine never stands still. Its kaleidoscope of flavors, taste and style provide a never-ending stream of fascination. There are tens of thousands of fine wines, perhaps more, from a multitude of growers, countries and vintages that would make a festive gift for the connoisseur. But when looking to treat someone this holiday season when it comes to wine and spirits, a little homework is required.

Champagne: What’s in a Name?…Quote by yours truly!

Champagne is sparkling wine. But not all sparkling wine is Champagne.

On a recent trip to Reims, I sat down to dinner with Champagne producer Bruno Paillard. His message was loud and clear. “It is an absurdity that the United States continues to protect producers who are abusing the identity of others rather than using honest labeling.”

What he is referring to is the place name ‘Champagne’, which has been an impasse on wine trade talks. Current laws allow U.S. producers continued use of the term under a grandfather law, causing further confusion for American wine consumers.