This is an excellent documentary, IF you understand what it is and who it's for. What it is NOT is "The Beginner's Guide to Champagne"! It does not try to be and it's not intended to be. If you are a complete novice to wine you may still get something from this but I strongly advice you to do some research on sparkling wines in general and Champagne in particular before you watch the film.
If, on the other hand, you're an intermediary (advanced beginner to beginning advanced) then this film is right up your alley. It does assume some basic knowledge on your part and it won't waste your time going over the very basics of sparkling wine making, what grapes are grown in this legendary region, what the traditional method is and things of that nature. Instead it provides you with a great insight into the realities of wine making in Champagne. On top of that you get many gorgeous views of the rugged landscape and the charming people of the region.
Finally, if you are an advanced wine enthusiast with an intimate knowledge of the style and region, then you won't learn much new here, but you will still enjoy the vistas and personalities.
So, this film is absolutely recommended, as long as you understand what you are watching. The film is slow and beautiful, full of atmosphere and people, like a good documentary should be. Just don't expect it to be a quick guide for those with no knowledge and a short attention span. In fact, why not enjoy it with a glass of bubbly.
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