The Widow Who Changed the Course of Champagne Hits the Big Screen

Haley Bennett stars in Widow Clicquot, as Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin Clicquot<p>Courtesy of Widow Clicquot</p>
Haley Bennett stars in Widow Clicquot, as Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin Clicquot

Courtesy of Widow Clicquot

One of the most influential stories in wine— one that is vaguely known and rarely talked about or shared—has become the topic of the new film Widow Clicquot. Arriving in theaters today, the film tells the story of Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin Clicquot, who not only defined the legendary Champagne brand of Veuve Clicquot but revolutionized the Champagne industry forever.

Watch the trailer 

After her husband's untimely death, Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin Clicquot flouts convention by assuming the reins of the fledgling wine business they had nurtured together. Steering the company through dizzying political and financial reversals, she defies her critics and revolutionizes the champagne industry to become one of the world's first great businesswomen. Based on the best-selling book The Widow Clicquot by Tilar J. Mazzeo.

"Grande Dame of Champagne" - Madame Clicquot<p>Courtesy of Widow Clicquot</p>
"Grande Dame of Champagne" - Madame Clicquot

Courtesy of Widow Clicquot

Widow Clicquot is based on the true story of the “Grande Dame of Champagne,” Barbe-Nicole Ponsardin (1777–1866) who, at the age of 20, became Madame Clicquot after marrying the scion of a winemaking family. Though their marriage was arranged, a timeless love blossomed between Barbe-Nicole (Haley Bennett) and her unconventional, erratic husband, Franc?ois (Tom Sturridge). Her passion, perseverance, and quest for excellence led to the rise in Champagne Veuve Clicquot, and inspired generations to come how to elaborate wines of place in such a storied region.

Visit widowclicquotmovie.com to check local showtimes and purchase tickets.