One Nation, Under Grog

They say that politics and religion are taboo topics at the dinner table, but add some VINO to that table and both are fair game. You see, wine has a long-running relationship with both touchy subjects. Religion is what saved the wine industry from complete extinction during Prohibition, as "sacramental" wine was the only legal way to continue making the blessed grape juice (and consequently, converting nearly the entire population to Catholicism). We like to think that Jesus drank wine as he bonded with the boys, and just about every good Christian I know is happy to follow in his footsteps, for the sake of good old fashioned "fellowship."

And then there's politics. Or, politicians, rather, who have set a standard of wine consumption as an urbane, intelligent and patriotic activity since the early days of the White House. One of the pioneers of wine worship was Thomas Jefferson, whose first order of White House business was to convert the laundry room into a wine cellar, filling it with thousands of dollars worth of wines from around the globe. A high priority, indeed, as Jefferson wooed many an international dignitary with his collection of French and Italian vinos.

Then there was the epically-glamorous Kennedy era, when French Bordeaux was the order of the day. Perhaps this helped shift the mindset of the "cocktail generation", as Jackie and John sauced it up with their fancy imports. When Lyndon B. Johnson moved into the White House, wine consumption turned ethnocentric, as LBJ banned all international wines from being served at official functions -- thankfully American citizens weren't required to abide by the same rule (not that I don't love my local vinos, but life without Argentine Malbec or German Reisling just isn't worth living). Even the conservative Carters, who banned hard alcohol service in the White House let wine stay on the drink menu. I can't imagine who would have ever come to dinner if they hadn't...

And, alas, the dawning of a new White House wining & dining age...the Obama era. For months, we've watched, listened, and obsessed over the Obamas' every move, paying closest attention to the crucial details like -- what is she wearing? where are they eating? and most importantly, what are they sipping on? Hot topic!

Just as Sex and the City popularized the pretty pink cosmo, the equally witty, successful, and poised Michelle Obama has, perhaps unknowingly, advised the savvy American woman to stock up on Graham Beck Brut (South Africa). After a sommelier in Chicago suggested the GB Brut to the Obamas in 2008, they ordered 6 cases to have on hand for Nov. 4th... assuming they'd have reason to toast.

Coincidentally, the Graham Beck Brut is a lot like Mr. President himself: Refreshing. Elegant. Gentle, yet powerful. And, what do you know...they're both from Africa.

So, my fellow Americans, as if we didn't already love bubbly, it's time to follow our new leader and get some Beck!