2012 Champagne Sales in France Far From Bubbly

Pierre Bonnard poster, from exhibit
at the Milwaukee Art Museum

If champagne sales are a barometer of celebration and good times, then count France among this year's more discouraged nations. According to an Associated Press story picked up by sfgate.com, sales in France of the world's favorite bubbly alcoholic beverage declined nearly five percent from the previous year's results. Apparently, Europe's economic woes trimmed the spirits of Parisians and provincials alike. The story did not reveal if the French found a substitute for champagne, although abstinence does not seem in keeping with the Gallic personality.

Antoine Chiquet, part of a family that has produced champagne and wine for generations, offered a unique perspective on the situation. "We'll have to rediscover optimism," he said.