Nevertheless, there are some exceptions, like these two films of contrasting styles, both shot in 2004, coincidentally a good vintage: Jonathan Nossiter's iconoclastic documentary Mondovino (2004), which continues to spark some controversy, and Alexander Payne's wonderful drama Sideways, translated into Spanish as Entre Copas, with a brilliant Paul Giamatti in one of the main roles.
In addition to these two titles, which are probably the most renowned wine films, we recommend three more, which are at least capable of entertaining us for a while. And that's no mean feat.
The Secret of Santa Vittoria
A Hollywood classic directed in 1969 by cult filmmaker Stanley Kramer, the film benefits from the presence of Anthony Quinn playing a histrionic role with that eminently Italian over-the-top demeanour.
Set in the Second World War, it tells the story of how an entire village manages to hide its vast stocks of precious local wine from the Germans. The entire comedy is a full of friendly, funny mishaps and has a fantastic cast.
You can watch it through Amazon Prime.
A Good Year
A romantic picture is a must on any film list, and this one ticks all the boxes. A good plot, a reunion, a couple, the odd contretemps, and an ending that leaves you with a pleasant aftertaste, much like a rosé from Provence. It is indeed here, in this part of southern France, where the action takes place, among Provencal country houses and vineyards that fit in with the mental picture that the English (like the film's main character, played by Rusell Crowe) have of the stereotyped Mediterranean sensuality, embodied by the landscape as well as by the leading actress, Marion Cotillard.
In essence, an impeccably well-crafted piece, with good tempo and beautiful scenes, with light and passion and as attractive as it is expendable, as it should be.
A year in Burgundy
A good documentary, part journalistic part artistic, that spans a year of grape growing in Burgundy in barely 90 minutes. The lives of seven winemaking families in this prestigious French region provide us with the insight to understand the fundamentals of this fascinating business.
When it was released in 2013, there was unanimous praise from all the critics (wine and film):
"It's a beautiful film. In fact, it may be the best wine movie I've ever seen"
? Lettie Teague, Wall Street Journal
"Tender and real. It shows the hard work, the travails and tribulations of working the soil for a living."
? Wine Spectator
"Five Stars."
? Jancis Robinson (Financial Times)
"It?s a treat for wine experts and neophytes alike."
? Santa Barbara Independent
It is available on Amazon Prime and vudu. Do not miss it and, if you feel thirsty, schedule a second sitting to watch A Year in Champagne, which is the sequel, but set 230 kilometres (143 miles) away."
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