Sara Underdown, an Adelaide-based expert and advocate for Champagne, has been honoured in France, with the prestigious title of Dame Chevalier. The induction took place in Paris during a grand ceremony hosted by the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne on September 26th. The event is part of the harvest chapter celebrations focused on promoting and celebrating Champagne.
Established in 1656 and re-established in 1956 after a hiatus following the French Revolution, the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne recognises individuals who have exceptionally contributed to the promotion and awareness of Champagne wines globally. It is one of the oldest French bacchic guilds, originally founded by three noblemen under the reign of Louis XIV.
The exclusive event saw more than 200 attendees from around the world, including top officials from over fifteen Champagne Houses, at the Automobile Club de France in Paris. Each of these representatives brought forth their top cuvées for the occasion, making the gala an esteemed gathering of wine connoisseurs and industry leaders.
Sara shared her feelings about the honour, stating, “It was a very special and proud moment for me after so many years of following my passion for the most magical of all wines, and working hard to promote them in Australia.” Her statement underscores the dedication and fervour that has characterised her career in the champagne industry.
As the founder of VINE & BUBBLE, a prominent online champagne publication and luxury event and travel company, Sara has positioned herself as a leading voice in Australia’s champagne industry. Her initiatives aim to bridge the gap between Champagne enthusiasts and the storied vintages of the region through education, bespoke experiences, and direct engagement with wine producers and industry insiders.
Sara Underdown’s contributions to the champagne world extend beyond her new title as Dame Chevalier. She is also a recipient of accolades such as the Vin de Champagne Awards, the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards, and the Born Digital Wine Awards. Sara has also been anointed as the official Star Wine List Ambassador for both the Champagne region and South Australia. Her engagement stretches across multiple platforms including international and domestic publications, and she hosts the VINE & BUBBLE Podcast, furthering her outreach and influence in the wine industry.
This accolade recognises Sara Underdown’s commitment to the Champagne industry and also symbolises the strong cultural and professional ties between Australian wine professionals and the global wine industry. Sara’s role as a bridge between Australian enthusiasts and one of the world’s most revered wine regions continues to elevate the local and international understanding and appreciation of Champagne.
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