I haven’t turned pages this fast since the last pulpy thriller I read. I don’t think I’ve*ever* been on the edge of my seat with historical fiction. “Olivia, Mourning” and “The Way the World Is” by Yael Politis are no murder mysteries or psychological thrillers, they just have beautiful, clear writing, historical detail so real it feels like watching a movie, characters you root for, and a gut-punch that comes out of nowhere (a good thing, in a book). I’m posting two books because you cannot read the first without immediately reaching for the second, just like you cannot drink one glass of Bouvet Ladubay Signature Brut without quickly refilling. The more I read the “Olivia” series, the more I loved them. The more I drink Bouvet, the more it grows on me. Don’t get me wrong, I loved this méthode traditionnelle made of Chenin Blanc from the moment I first sipped it. But every time I pop a bottle it is just as fresh, bright, and bubbly as I’m hoping for: it has notes of crisp citrus, yellow flowers, and toast with well-balanced acidity and elegance. Open a good book, pair Bouvet with cheese, and call it an evening.
ORIGIN
Loire Valley, France
Grapes
90% Chenin Blanc, 10% Chardonnay
Tasting Notes
Pale straw in color with fine, pinpoint bubbles, the wine offers toast and fruit on the nose along with crisp citrus notes. Well-balanced acidity culminates in an elegant, persistent finish.
Food Match
This wine can be enjoyed with a wide range of seafood, white meat and dishes prepared with creamy sauces.
Diana studied Anthropology at Penn State and Food Culture & Communications at the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy. After living la bella vita in Italy for six years, she returned to the U.S. and landed in NYC. She has been working in wine since 2012 and holds WSET 2. Loves Nebbiolo and amaro. Talk to her about Italy.