28 December 2012
How do you say "Moët et Chandon"?
There is much argument to be found on the internet about the Dutch origin of the name "Moet" and that the name was subsequently changed by French King Charles Vll, thus the historic pronunciation goes from "moot" to "mo way". The long established company however and, therefore, some wine experts say the correct pronunciation is "mo wet", so I think this goes "mo wet ay shondon".
Are we talking language or branding here? If language, then I would argue that the most popular way is correct. This is how language changes, irrespective of whether it is right or wrong. If a question of someone's name, politeness or etiquette could apply, although names are often mispronounced (e.g."Mamselle Cochon" prefers the pronunciation "koe shon", thus mutely separating it from its direct translation "Miss Pig").
I was asked about this and stand corrected. I've always heard and pronounced it "mo way shondon" because it falls off the tongue easier. Ordering a bottle of Champagne from an English off licence, supermarket or corner shop has never been a problem for me. If hosting at a restaurant, I'd rather point to a number on the wine list than risk a pronunciation of any number of wines. I'd want to share and drink my choice with my guests, not discuss its name with the wine waiter, sommelier or server.
Do I care to further this argument, seeing as I prefer a bottle of sparkling wine at a fraction of the cost? None of those selling this particular Champagne brand to me over the years have ever corrected my (mis)pronunciation but simply accepted my money, which is the crux (pronounced "crucks" and not to be confused with other marketing terms like cru or crus, pronounced "crew") of the matter.
Copyright Ⓒ 2012 Christopher Patrick Kirk all rights reserved
Grand Crux • Opuss № I