[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 64 (Thursday, May 1, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E840]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


            IN RECOGNITION OF DOMAINE CHANDON OF NAPA VALLEY

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                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 1, 2003

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
Domaine Chandon, the Napa Valley leading sparkling wine producer, as it 
celebrates its 30th Anniversary.
  Domaine Chandon was founded in 1973 as the first American sparkling 
wine venture established by the French Champagne house, Moet et 
Chandon. As pioneers in producing California sparkling wine, Domaine 
Chandon has had a far-reaching impact on winemaking in the Napa Valley 
and is continuing to break new ground with its foodloving wines, both 
sparking and varietal stills.
  Before Domaine Chandon was established, American-made sparkling wine 
was overshadowed by French Champagne. When Moet et Chandon, makers of 
Dom Perignon and other fine Champagnes, selected the Napa Valley as the 
next world class sparkling wine regions, it helped establish 
California's reputation as one of the world's top wine producing 
regions.
  In addition to producing premium sparking wine and a highly regarding 
line of still wines, Domaine Chandon has proven that sparkling wines 
shouldn't be limited to New Year's Eve and weddings. With eight 
sparkling wine cuvees available nationally and five specialty wines 
available at the winery, Domaine Chandon offers a full range of flavors 
and styles that are very well matched with foods. As the only Napa 
Valley winery with an on-site restaurant, Domaine Chandon showcases the 
pairing sparkling wine with food and in doing so, has help establish 
the region as a world-renowned dining destination.
  Mr. Speaker, as Domaine Chandon celebrates its 30th anniversary with 
a showcase 30-course dinner and other signature events the weekend of 
May 2 through May 4, 2003, it is appropriate that we recognize them 
today for their many contributions to fine wine and fine dining in 
California's Napa Valley.

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