Champagne in Britain, 1800-1914: How the British Transformed a French Luxury

Champagne has been a wine of elite celebration and hedonism since its introduction to British society in the mid-17th century, and "Champagne in Britain, 1800-1914" is the first book to study this iconic drink in Britain. It reveals how champagne became embedded in the habits of Victorian society, with fashion as a driver of choice, the power of the label, and the illusion of scarcity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

From its introduction to British society in the mid-17th century, champagne has been a wine of elite celebration and hedonism. This captivating book, "Champagne in Britain, 1800-1914," is the first comprehensive exploration of this iconic drink in Britain in over a century. Author Richard Harding delves into the history of champagne consumption in the United Kingdom, spanning from 1800 to 1914. Through his meticulous research, Harding reveals how champagne was embraced, branded, and marketed to British society during this period.

Not only did the champagne market lay the foundations of the luxury market we know today, but this book also demonstrates how it played a significant role in addressing 19th-century social concerns such as the "temperate turn," anxieties over adulteration, and the growing prosperity of the British middle class. By utilizing archival sources from prominent French producers like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Pommery & Greno, as well as records from British distributors, newspapers, magazines, and wine literature, Harding paints a vivid picture of how champagne became deeply ingrained in the habits of Victorian society. Through captivating illustrations, he highlights the social and marketing dynamics that revolved around champagne's luxury status, emphasizing the importance of fashion as a driving force in choice, the power of labels, and the illusion of scarcity.

"Champagne in Britain, 1800-1914" sheds light on how the British taste for champagne spread worldwide, becoming a symbol of status and celebration. It explores how the reach of imperial Britain facilitated the globalization of this prestigious beverage, making it a sought-after luxury item across different continents. This book not only offers a historical perspective on champagne consumption in Britain but also provides valuable insights into the social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped its popularity during this remarkable era. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and luxury of champagne, as well as the broader impact of British imperialism on global consumer culture.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 259 x 257 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350212930