American Wines Beat French Wines in Bottle Shock

American Wines Beat French Wines in Bottle Shock

Sure, you are busting at the seams with invites to barbecues, parades, and neighborhood firework displays during which someone will end up with a third-degree burn. But if you want to fit in a little relaxation this Fourth of July weekend, how about some patriotic and alcoholic movie viewing?


Bottle Shock came out in 2008, but you may not have heard of it. It was small. It didn’t get a lot of press. It was an underdog. Which we find pretty fitting, since the true story is depicts is all about the David vs. Goliath struggle, too.

In the movie, a British wine shop-owner living in Paris decides to drum up some business at his store by holding a blind wine tasting. Hoping to draw on the nationalistic views of his new neighbors while showcasing what he hears may be a new trend, he pits fine French wines against a series of then-unknown American bottles. But, of course, the plan goes awry, as taster after taster scores the “New World” wines higher than their fancy European counterparts.

And yes, this all really happened. Commonly referred to the “Judgment of Paris,” the French tasters overwhelmingly chose California chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons over French varieties. There has been lots of chatter about the validity of many scenes in the movie, but at its core, the message is the same: it only took one almost-bankrupt British guy to introduce the world to the Napa Valley and cause the movement that we all take for granted today. Not only were the French amazed, but a Time reporter that happened to be there wrote about the contest, and suddenly Americans were clamoring to buy 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and 1973 Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon.

The moral? American rocks. Or, perhaps, that you should never underestimate the ability of the new guy. Either way, it’s quite patriotic and a fitting way to enjoy some TV time this weekend. Pour a little red, pour a little white and... er... put them in some blue glasses. Enjoy!


Melissa Auman Greiner is a born and bred Philly girl with a soft spot for the city's growing food and wine scenes, leafy green squares and sultry summers. Just don't get her started on the inadequacy of SEPTA. With nearly 10 years of experience covering the city for a variety of newspapers, magazines and websites, it hasn't just been her pleasure to visit Philly's best bars and restaurants -- it's been her job. And with an advanced certification from the International Sommelier Guild under her belt, she brings her city savvy and wine know-how together to deliver Drink Philly readers the latest info on Philly vino.


Related Articles:

Extra Happy Hours on the Horizon

Recent Articles
spacer

Feedback

How are we doing? Tell us what you like or don't like and how we can improve. We would love to hear your thoughts!

*Name:
*E-mail:
*Suggestions:
 
Behind the Bar: Liana Oster of Dante

Behind the Bar: Liana Oster of Dante

For this exciting installment of Behind the Bar, we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Liana Oster, the head bartender at Dante in New Yo...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Jan 7, 2020
Pabst Blue Ribbon Launches Blue Ribbon Whiskey in Select US Markets

Pabst Blue Ribbon Launches Blue Ribbon Whiskey in Select US Markets

PBR has launched their own whiskey. Let's keep an open mind and see what is inside this bottle....read more ›

by Carrie Dow Sep 24, 2019
The Master Sommelier Scandal is Now the Subject of a New Investigative Series

The Master Sommelier Scandal is Now the Subject of a New Investigative Series

There's a new investigative series about one of the biggest scandals to ever hit the wine world....read more ›

by The Drink Nation Sep 13, 2019
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Store Rectangle
Try These Summer Cocktails This Season in D.C.

Try These Summer Cocktails This Season in D.C.

It's officially summertime in the city, and we can't think of a better way to cool off from DC's heat and humidity than with a cold, boozy cocktail in...read more ›

by Lanna Nguyen Jul 31, 2019
Using Peas to Make Gin Might Lead to More Environmentally Friendly Spirits, Studies Show

Using Peas to Make Gin Might Lead to More Environmentally Friendly Spirits, Studies Show

Scientists may have discovered a more environmentally friendly way to make one of the world's most popular spi...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Jul 23, 2019
Drink a Classic Cocktail for a Good Cause During Negroni Week, June 24-30

Drink a Classic Cocktail for a Good Cause During Negroni Week, June 24-30

Negroni Week 2019 is June 24-30, so drink this classic cocktail for a good cause....read more ›

by The Drink Nation Jun 19, 2019
What to Do if Your Uber, Lyft, or Cab Driver Ever Strays From Your Destination or Makes You Feel in Danger

What to Do if Your Uber, Lyft, or Cab Driver Ever Strays From Your Destination or Makes You Feel in Danger

If you're taking an Uber, Lyft, or cab and feel unsafe, there are steps you can take to protect yourself....read more ›

by Nina Starner Jun 19, 2019
D.C.'s Best Wine Bars

D.C.'s Best Wine Bars

Whether you're a wino or a wine novice, DC is home to a number of wine bars perfect for casual sipping or for expanding your palate. ...read more ›

by Lanna Nguyen May 29, 2019
Behind the Bar: Kat Corbo of The Study & Winner of Speed Rack 2019

Behind the Bar: Kat Corbo of The Study & Winner of Speed Rack 2019

This time on Behind the Bar, we spoke to Kat Corbo of The Study, who recently won Speed Rack 2019....read more ›

by The Drink Nation May 15, 2019
Where to Drink Outside in D.C. During Summer 2019

Where to Drink Outside in D.C. During Summer 2019

Patio weather has arrived! Grab your friends, stake a spot at the bar and take advantage of these outdoor spots for drinking and dining. ...read more ›

by Lanna Nguyen May 14, 2019
SPONSORED
Drink Nation Home Bar Project Bottom Rectangle 2
View all Articles

Sign up to get weekly drinking news, bar reviews, events and more sent directly to your inbox!

Close