Is the perfect vintage a fairy tale? It’s close to fantasy in the movie The Vintner’s Luck. The story follows the peasant Sobran Jodeau who dreams of winning the hand of the beautiful Celeste and to create wine with grapes from his own vineyard. Set in the early nineteenth century France, the viewer witnesses Sobran’s loves: Celeste whom he marries, the baroness Aurora de Valday who inherits the estate and Xas, an angel-like creature that seems more human than angelic.

Although grape growing and wine making is above Sorbran’s station, with the help of Xas, Sobran plants vines that Xas gave him. He then made a wine in 1815 that ages well. Soon Sorbran manages the chateau’s vineyards and winemaking. His passionate relationship with Celeste continues even after several children. An intellectual relationship develops with Aurora, whom he teaches how to taste wines and teaches her how he makes wines. Sorbran develops a mystical relationship with Xas that borders on good, evil and love.

Sorbran’s lust for life, love and a perfect vintage are overshadowed by pain. One of his children dies, he discovers that Xas isn’t a frequent traveler to heaven and his relationship with Aurora becomes more passionate.

For those who see the romantic side of wine, you may enjoy this movie even though the character of Xas reminds you that it is fantasy more than reality. So too might be the perfect vintage.

Cheers,

Terry