I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the realization of this token of my passion for Champagne. Without the help and the information from various people I could never have written this epistle. There are a number of persons who deserve my utmost gratitude.
- Heleen Lennarts, my partner, for translating my concoctions in English, for her lenience and understanding towards the bloke who time and again, spent whole nights hammering away on the keyboard and for her unwavering support.
- Phillipe Brugnon, Champagne producer, for explaining in detail every step of the Champagne-process, for enabling me to take part in the activities in the vineyard as well as in the cellars and for the many pleasant evenings we spent together in Rally la Montage while enjoying a good glass of wine or Champagne.
- Frans van der Eerden, viticulturist, for his enthousiasm for Champagne which proved to be contagious. Also for lending me his books on Champagne from the Viticulturist classes.
- André Sauerbier, connoisseur, for helping in setting up the http://Champagne.startpagina.nl
- Tom Stevenson, English Champagne and Sparkling wine expert for digitally making available his book" The Champagne and Sparkling Wine Guide" and the accompanying
- Stephanie van Rantwijk, of the Champagne Information centre, for her feedback on my publications and the contents of the site.
- Tine Lennarts, for translating a number of French texts into Dutch, Dutch into English and for editing my Dutch language efforts.
- Richard Juhlin, for years already the unchallenged Champagne writer in the world for his brilliant books on Champagne amongst which "4000 Champagnes".
- Cornelis Heystek and Jeroen Bos of the Confrérie du Sabre dÓr, for their brilliant conversations about the combination of Champagne, food and wine.
- Moët et Chandon, for making available its intern course material
- The many Champagne producers who keep me informed of their products and developments and provide me with lots of photo material.
- The many visitors to my website who made me aware of certain errors.
I also thank the reader for his intention to struggle through my narrative. I am fully aware of the fact that from time to time I tend to elaborate and may seem a little chaotic. Your patience and lenience, also in the event of omissions are therefore highly appreciated in advance.
You would greatly oblige me by sending me messages containing possible supplements, corrections, your experiences with ‘le’and ‘la’ Champagne or simply your evaluation of my story.