THE WIDOW CLICQUOT

by Tilar J. Mazzeo

This amazing book is the true story of the woman who created the Veuve Clicquot empire in France just after the French Revolution when women weren’t generally allowed to own property or run businesses. Upon her husband’s death when she was 27 years old, Barbe-Nicole Clicquot Ponsardin assumed leadership of the wine company she and her husband had run together. With genuine strength and a natural ability for business, she nurtured the company through multiple political and financial firestorms – to become one of the first and most successful business women of her time.

Not only will the story of the widow Clicquot captivate you, but the author has filled the book with interesting stories and facts about champagne. I found myself regularly reading passages out loud to my husband. (He immediately read the book upon my finishing it.) We have both talked about the book to friends at social gatherings and have even bought copies for people we think will enjoy the read.

So, thanks to Michael and Alison for bringing the book to my attention! I wholeheartedly recommend this totally original and fascinating book about an unforgettable woman. (Liz)