December 8, 1939: On this day, Josephine Tychson died. Josephine Tychson, a 31-year-old mother of two small children at the time of her husband’s suicide, was one of the first woman winemakers in Napa Valley. She performed an outstanding job of carrying out the couple’s intentions for the Tychson Winery on their 147 acres. She oversaw the cellar’s completion (which housed 20,000 gallons) and the replanting of additional vineyards after consulting with her foreman. After eight years of arduous labor, phylloxera caused her to lose the vineyard to investors.

December 8, 2009: On this day, a bottle of 1928 Krug Champagne was, for a time, the most costly bottle of Champagne ever auctioned. The Krug Collection 75cl bottle was sold at the inaugural Hong Kong auction held by Acker Merrall & Condit. According to the catalog, it sold for £14,800 (US$21,200; €15,900) and was described as having “excellent color and condition.” The Head of Sotheby’s Wine Department, Serena Sutcliffe, described the 1928 Krug as “one of the greatest champagnes ever produced.”

December 8, 2020: On this day Tasting Victory: The Wines of the World’s Favorite Sommelier was published. Written by the legendary Master of Wine and Master Sommelier Gerard Basset, the book is filled with his memories, career wisdom, and life story.

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