To appreciate the most brilliant facets of the French wine-making culture, it is necessary to explore three prestigious regions: Cognac, Champagne, and Bordeaux. All three regions are home to one of the grandest wine-making companies in France's exemplary tradition: Moët Hennessy. Cognac is the ancestral birthplace of Hennessy; Champagne is home to exemplary houses such as Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Krug, Ruinart, and Mercier; and Bordeaux is graced by the magical château Yquem. The Moët Hennessy empire joins these fine labels into a single esteemed family.

Distinctive Vintages offers a practical guide to the three regions as well as an explanation of the different vintages and results produced by these eight phenomenal winemakers. Alain Stella visits each of these exceptional wineries, where traditions have endured because of an extraordinary level of devotion and business acumen passed from generation to generation. Unparalleled richness of soil, the genius of exceptional entrepreneurs, and a passion for products synonymous with perfection and luxury have upheld the success of the most famous nectars in the world. This book is a dense and delectable tribute.