Fine wine and Formula 1

WWMD  – What would Margaret drink?

Margaret Pearman is a certified sommelier under the Court of Master Sommeliers and is responsible for curating the award-winning wine list at Charlie’s Coastal Bistro. Here is her sipping suggestion for October:

There’s an undeniable allure that connects fast cars and exquisite wines: the pursuit of perfection. To even the casual observer, the iconic scene of a triumphant race car driver atop the podium, joyfully showering the audience with Champagne, paints a vivid picture. Historically, only genuine Champagne from France was considered worthy of symbolizing the pinnacle of Formula 1 racing.

However, 2021 heralded a change. F1 CEO Matteo Lunelli formed a partnership with Ferrari Winery from the scenic Trento region of northern Italy. Contrary to what one might think, the name here doesn’t allude to the famed automobile. Instead, it’s synonymous with a sparkling wine that epitomizes excellence.

For this grand occasion Ferrari Winery crafted a unique bottle for enthusiasts to savor at home. On the podium the spotlight is on the traditional brut bottled in an impressive jeroboam (equivalent to four standard bottles). This particular brut stands out as a remarkable 100 percent Chardonnay sparkler, crafted using the “methode champenoise” — the very technique employed in authentic Champagne production. 

Despite its premium quality, it is affordably priced at around $30. With a legacy going back to 1902, initiated by Giulio Ferrari and flourishing under the Lunelli Group since 1952, Ferrari Winery has celebrated over three generations of sparkling wine craftsmanship. Its spectrum of offerings spans the fundamental brut to exclusive vintage bottles during exceptional years.

So the next time you wish to commemorate a significant milestone or simply indulge in life’s pleasures, let the refined bubbles of Ferrari toast your moment.

Red Bull F1 driver Max Verstappen celebrates his victory at the 2022 Formula 1 Canadian GP in Montreal, Canada.