For sheer magic, champagne has no equal. It is the very emblem of sophistication, of celebration, of uninhibited pleasure. One of the most closely protected wine appellations in the world, it enhances French art de vivre and contributes to its global prominence and prestige. Ever since champagne was first dreamed up at the turn of the eighteenth century, the region’s visionary producers have forged ahead to open new markets and develop local terroirs.

Just how did the cork-popping “devil’s wine” become the blessed nectar of the gods? Whether it’s crafted by independent vignerons who cultivate grapes on their own lands or produced by legendary houses, champagne remains an international success that shines in a category by itself, beyond every other sparkling wine on Earth.

From exceptional vintages to an array of more recent releases, this exclusive selection curated by World’s Best Sommelier Enrico Bernardo spans three centuries and is illustrated by various tasting experiences, insightful tips and singular anecdotes. He highlights the most remarkable bottles ever produced, all united by the impossibility of ever having them together in one cellar at a time, hence this volume’s title. Presented in a wooden box, this edition is bound by hand and luxuriously crafted with hand-tipped labels, making it a must have for all champagne aficionados.

Complimentary white gloves and signature canvas tote bag are included with each purchase from Assouline's Ultimate Collection

Enrico Bernardo made his name at Le V, the restaurant at the Four Seasons George V in Paris, and was named Best Sommelier of the World in 2004. As a restaurateur, he has created and owned several Michelin star–holding restaurants, focused on pairing the perfect wine with each dish. Bernardo consults for food, wine and art de vivre companies worldwide and is the author of seven books including The Impossible Collection of Wine (2016) and La Sagesse du Vin (2021). In 2018, he undertook a world wine trip, broadening his knowledge of the industry and bringing unknown talents to light.

Assouline’s Ultimate Collection is an homage to the art of luxury bookmaking. Hand-bound using traditional techniques, with color plates hand-tipped on art-quality paper, each page of this limited-edition series bears the unique imprint of the artisan. Treating a range of topics from jewelry and fashion, fine art and the ‘Impossible Collections,’ the Ultimate Collection curates culture from around the world and across the ages. Nestled in linen clamshell presentation cases, these books attract collectors, lovers of the printed page, and those who devour the culture of our time. Signaling a new level of sophistication for true connoisseurs, these unique books are works of art in their own right.

Assouline’s Newest $1,500 Coffee Table Book Is A Definitive Ode To Champagne; By: Chris Singh, Boss Hunting Online (Australia), December 2022

This New Coffee Table Book Tells the True History of Champagne Through 100 Iconic Bottles; By: Mike Desimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report Online (USA), December 2022

Holiday Gift Guide; By: Bea Isaacson, Elite Traveler Online (USA), December 2022

2022 Forbes Holiday Gift Guide: An A-To-Z List Of Letter-Perfect Presents; By: Michael Solomon and Isabel Lord, Forbes Online (USA), December 2022

The Best Gifts for Wine Lovers from Coravin, Belmond, Crurated and More, Robb Report Online (Singapore), December 2022

World-Renowned Sommelier Enrico Bernardo Releases ‘The Impossible Collection of Champagne’, IMBOLDN Online (USA), November 2022