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Books
THERE MUST BE EVEN MORE WORDS WRITTEN ABOUT CHAMPAGNE THAN BOTTLES PRODUCED. A GREAT MANY BOOKS MINUTELY EXPLORE EVERY POSSIBLE ASPECT OF THE SUBJECT, TO SAY NOTHING OF MANY THOUSANDS OF MAGAZINE ARTICLES.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE VERY best; some are long out of print, but you may find them in second-hand bookstores or as reprints. Others are still easily available.
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It might seem long out of date, and certain aspects inevitably are, but this has long been considered as perhaps the all-time classic on the subject. Another couple of older books which have long been highly regarded are ‘Guide to the Wines of Champagne’ by Pamela Vandyke Price (1979) and the scholarly ‘Champagne: The Wine, the Land and the People’ by Patrick Forbes (1967). “CHRISTIE’S WORLD ENCYCLOPEDIA OF CHAMPAGNE & SPARKLING WINE” BY TOM STEVENSON AND ESSI AVELLAN. THE LATEST EDITION IS 2014.
In many ways, this is the expanded version of Stevenson’s original work, but it is far more encompassing, incorporating sparkling wine from around the world, though for me, not as thorough on Champagne itself.
“A SCENT OF CHAMPAGNE – 8,000 CHAMPAGNES TASTED AND RATED” BY RICHARD JUHLIN. 2012.
Swedish author, Richard Juhlin, vies with Stevenson as the world’s leading authority on Champagne. We have had his ‘2,000 Champagnes’ and ‘4,000 Champagnes’ (will we see 16,000?). Great depth on individual Champagnes from almost every producer. This is the book for checking on scores and thoughts on that rare Champagne in the corner of the cellar. Not as extensive, but full of good information, especially on recent releases, is ‘The Champagne Guide’ by Tyson Stelzer – an annual release. ‘The Finest Wines of Champagne – A Guide to the Best Cuvees, Houses and Growers’ by Michael Edwards (2009) is also very useful.
“CHAMPAGNE & CHANDELIERS – GRAND DINING CELEBRATIONS” BY BERNADETTE O’SHEA. 2009.
A beautifully presented tome, full of wonderful stories of great dinners and events, all involving Champagne. As much a work of art as the Champagnes it discusses. Few are as knowledgeable as Bernadette, or can speak with such enthusiasm. She will be known to a great many wine lovers for the many dinners and classes she hosts. The best way to source this superb book is to email Bernadette herself, bernadetteo@ thewineemporium.com.au.
“THE ART OF VINTAGE” BY SERENA SUTCLIFFE. 2009.
Speaking of works of art, this exquisite publication focuses on twenty vintages of Perrier-Jouët, weaving the stories with history and artworks – they have an amazing collection. The ultimate coffee table book, but a fascinating one, as well. Other books which are dedicated to a single producer include ‘Bollinger – Tradition of a Champagne Family’ by Cyril Ray (1971, 3rd edition 1988) and ‘The Widow Clicquot – the Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman who Ruled it’ by Tilar Mazzeo (2008).
“CHAMPAGNE – HOW THE WORLD’S MOST GLAMOROUS WINE TRIUMPHED OVER WAR AND HARD TIMES” BY DON & PETIE KLADSTRUP. 2005.
Something very different, but a terrific tale drawing in many of history’s most famous names.
Finally, one magazine. “Fine Champagne”, the only ‘official’ magazine devoted solely to Champagne and its enjoyment. Check out at www.facebook.com/pages/ChampagneMagazine/37644459276. ❧
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