California winery Kendall-Jackson has announced that it is sending 'a few congratulatory cases' of its Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay to President-elect Barack Obama.
In a People magazine interview, Obama mentioned that the wine was a staple at his Chicago home.
Traditionally only American wines are served at official White House events.
Kendall-Jackson spokesman Mark Osmun said Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay was also served at the Reagan White House.
As to owners Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke's political preferences, he said, 'I don't know what they are. Obviously, his main affiliation is American.'
White House incumbents are no strangers to product placement. Jimmy Carter - whose fortune came from peanut farming - gave a big boost to that industry during his tenure, and Reagan's fondness for Jelly Belly jellybeans made that candy a hit.
Clinton was famous for slipping into McDonalds whenever secret service permitted. George W Bush hasn't been as successful a brand spokesperson.
Obama himself has sophisticated tastes. He's said to have a soft spot for Hart Schaffner Marx suits, Fran's artisanal chocolates from Seattle, and organic Black Forest Berry Tea from the politically progressive, Bethesda, Maryland-based company, Honest Tea.
It is not known how and when he will respond to the Kendall-Jackson overtures.
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Jess Jackson is a smart man, and he and his wife Barbara are a smart team. I don't find it unusual for Mr. Jackson to be the first to embrace another smart man, Barack Obama.
Mr. Jackson was the first to bring chardonnay to the masses, as an easy white wine to drink, that was affordable to those who want to drink wine. Barack Obama is a smart man, that is not just a "first" person of color to become president, but like Jess Jackson wants to create opportunity to all who aspire to achieve greatness. He also has a smart wife, so they are a smart team as well. So, maybe Mr. Jackson should send some of their red wines to the Obama's as well. They may serve some dishes that require a great bottle of Kendall-Jackson's "Stature" wine. I know because I've been fortunate enough to sample a bottle, and it was wonderful!
Two great men, in our great country, go figure!
Lorrie S. LeBeaux
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