Based on the book of the same name by Tilar Mazzeo, it tells the story of the young widow, who after the untimely death of her husband, takes up the mantle of tending to their vineyard and preserving the fledgling wine business they had nurtured together. Against all odds, this visionary young woman defies the patriarchy to build a champagne empire at a time when women were not permitted to work or hold a bank account. Steering the company through political hurdles and financial hardship, she revolutionises the champagne industry to become one of the world’s first great businesswomen and one of the richest women of her time.

Directed by Thomas Napper, the film is very much a French story with an international cast – Haley Bennett plays the title role and Tom Sturridge plays her husband François. It’s beautifully shot, atmospheric and brooding, with a wonderful score by Bryce Dressner of The National, who’s extremely well loved here in Cork and an active contributor to the Sounds from a Safe Harbour festival.