THE WIDOWS OF CHAMPAGNE is set in Champagne, France during WWII. The history of champagne can be traced to a Benedictine monk, born Pierre Pérignon. You probably know him as Dom Pérignon. In 1668, after taking his pledge of celibacy, he transferred to the Abbey of Hautvillers near the town of Épernay in the Champagne region of France. He served as cellar master for the Abbey until his death in 1715.

Dom Périgonon was known for his skill at blending different wine vintages to bring out the best of their flavors. His technique still used today.

He is famous for the iconic champagne slogan that has been associated with champagne ever since. The story goes that when Dom Pérignon first created his delicious bubbly champagne, he called out to his fellow monks, “Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!”

The distinct pop of a champagne cork is another invention of Dom Pérignon. Originally, champagne bottles had been closed with wood, which did not always fit. The use of cork ensured that the tiny bubbles in the champagne would be preserved.

He also made changes to the shape of champagne bottles, choosing thicker glass to prevent costly and dangerous explosions caused by a build-up of gases within the bottle. These gases are what create the bubbles.

Let’s raise a glass in honor of my favorite Benedictine monk, Dom Pérignon. Cheers!