But the Widow Clicquot Sure Did!Tilar J. Mazzeo's The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It is more than just a biography of Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin (1777-1866); it is a tribute to one of Europe's first successful women entrepreneurs. As a young widow forced to earn a living in the Napoleonic era, Ponsardin decided to continue in her husband's business. Despite many obstacles and financial setbacks, her product, Veuve, became a best-selling wine and first 'modern' version of what we now know as champagne.
Details on the wine industry and Ponsardin's climb to success are sure to please wine lovers and armchair historians. The book may also appeal to readers who appreciate an "intoxicating" business read, albeit with some occasionally "dry" prose.
Also for Wine Afficianados: The Billionaire's Vinegar by Benjamin Wallace; History in a Glass: 60 Years of Wine Writing from Gourmet, and Wine, Food & Friends by Karen MacNeil.
