50+ year old bottle of champagne...

[Unknown]

I've recently gotten ahold of a bottle of champange my grandfather brought back from France after WWII. It's called "Monopole Red Top." It was made by Heidsieck & Co. in Reims. The only other information on the lable is the date the company was established "Maisen Fonde en 1785" and a marking in the lower right hand corner that reads "Gout Americain." There are two things, however, that really caught my eye. It still has it's original straw bundle that wraps around the bottle (I'm guessing to keep out light) and a large red diagonal marking across the lable that reads (In English and French) "Reserved for Allied Armies." There is no back lable, and no information on exactly what KIND of champagne it is. It's obviously of some value, but how much, and where would some good internet sites be to do research or find a buyer? Any help would be appreciated.
-U

[winoweenie]

Hi Unbe-nownst-to-usuns' and welcome to the board. Sounds like you have a bottle that needs some research. The only one on the board likely to have first-hand knowledge of a WW1 wine has been moving lately and probably has lost his 'puter up in the Wa. Woods, along with what's been described as (giggle) his memory. Our resident Champagne expert in England will probably take over as this is rite down his alley. WW Pardon my omission...Tom Stephenson is one of the worlds most knowledgeable authorities on the bubbly. He has a web-site you can go to for more info. WW

[This message has been edited by winoweenie (edited 08-02-2002).]

[Unknown]

Thanks for the reply WW. What is the adress to Mr. Stephenson's web site? I'm really not having much luck so far with research of my own.
U

[winoweenie]

Hi agin there unknown. Go to the Champagne thread, go back 100 days, and find something that has an answer by Tom. Then you can E-mail him or look up his web site with your search feature. WW You caould also probably get his attention by making a post under the champagne thread.

[This message has been edited by winoweenie (edited 08-03-2002).]

[Bucko]

I am finally back on line again, but just dial up. The satellite modem is proving to be a challenge to these back woods boys......