I am perpetually drawn to stories of women who make their way in the worlds of wine, beer and spirits. Even today the worlds of wine, beer and spirits betray a maschismo (or at least are normatively masculine) despite sincere attemtps to appear egalitarian. As such, I am inspired by the character at the center of this month's reading: The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the
Woman Who Ruled It by Tilar J. Mazzeo. Born to obscure parents, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin was widowed at the age of 27 with a small child to care for. Without much in the way of resources, Ponsardin steers her family's fledging winery through the Napoleonic Wars and into history as the most well-know house of Champagne in the world. Savoured by many and recognized by all Veuve (Widow) Clicquot is a household name, and now, thanks to Ms Mazzeo, we can know a little more about the woman who gave us this delicious indulgence. Join us on Wednesday June 26th for a lively discussion and something bubbly!
May's Reading
A bit of fun fiction for our club this month! In Liquor: A Novel by Poppy Z. follow Rickey and G-man as they turn their love of food and booze into a successful restaurant, against the back drop of the raucous underworld of New Orelans. A delighful read with plenty of inspiriation, count on an interesting cocktail or two when we meet on Wednesday, May 29th from 6p-8p.
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