STOCKING STUFFERS: Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard Has Tastebuds in a Tizzy, While Thiénot Black Ball Champagne Is A Pleasing Goodwill Ambassador

Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is poured from the tap into a refillable, stoneware jar, then corked. Photos from Maille Web site.

HEADS UP: We know, it seems like only six months ago that ‘twas the season to be jolly. How is it that every year you have no idea what in the world to get those on your list?! Never fear, the elves at VEVLYN’S PEN are, of course, on the case. Up until 24 Dec., we will introduce at least one or a series of products, items and brands that we believe is worthy of consideration as a holiday gift(s). Also look for at least one article dedicated to stocking stuffers and at least one highlighting themed gifts. Could be theater. Or food&drink. Fashion, maybe? You’ll just have to stay tuned and read all about it. Happy, responsible shopping!

STEP up to the tap for a pour of your favorite. Do note that this is not a conversation about beer, though a lager, hops or IPA could nicely compliment the topic under discussion.

The topic under discussion is mustard – not just any mustard – but master, mustard-maker, Maille. There are many variety from which to choose, between sweet and savory. However, the one that captures this imagination is the Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard. Yum, a million times, yum!

Available in a corked, stoneware jar in three sizes from around $43 to $108, with refills slightly less, the Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is sublime and, divine. Procure it online or at one of the La Maison Maille shops in France, Australia, UK and United States.

Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard is availalbe in 18.6-, 8.8- and 4.4 ounce jars.

You are encouraged to stockpile, for it is only available from October through April.

Visit http://www.maille.com/ to learn more about the Maille Black Truffle and Chablis Mustard and other varieties.

With Every Sip of Thienot Black Ball Champagne, A Happy Reminder

Thienot Black Ball Champagne (2007) is tied to a very good cause.

FIRST impression is that it is very drinkable. Second impression. slightly tarty.

Third impression of the limited edition Thienot Black Ball Champagne (2007) is that it can stand up well to food – at least cheese and fish. May have a battle with beef of the T-bone, sirloin and London broil variety. However, it will likely knock along well enough with veal.

The Black Ball Champagne launched last month during the 12th Annual Keep A Child Alive [ KCA] Black Ball.

Fourth impression, semi-neat finish. No, there is a burst of fruit, then a long, smooth, descent.

A portion of proceeds from every bottle of Thienot Black Ball Champagne purchased goes to KCA, the charity co-founded by Alicia Keys in 2003. It is dedicated to eradicating AIDS/HIV from the lives of children and their families through physical, social and economic empowerment. (http://www.keepachildalive.org/)

Fifth impression of this blanc de blancs, from a house that was launched in 1985, it is only slightly yeasty to a palate that thinks a little yeastiness goes a long way.

Alicia Keys and Lenny Kravitz perform during the 12th Annual KCA Black Ball. Photo courtesy of Getty Images.

The Thienot Black Ball Champagne ($150) is available exclusively at Sherry-Lehmann Wine & Spirits and Sherry-Lehmann.com (http://www.bit.ly/1Pmz9XR)

Sixth impression, this palate has just experienced a refreshing, restorative elixir. And so will yours.

Think about it, with every sip, you can reflect that you or someone you know has done a small thing to make the world a better place.

Sante! Cheers! Salute!

Visit http://www.thienot.com/ to learn more about Thienot Black Ball and its other champagnes.