Even the haughtiest of interests are taking a hit during this grotty financial climate, a predicament exemplified by Arblaster & Clarke's new "self drive" champagne breaks for 2009. No, this doesn't involve driving around the hallowed vineyards getting sloshed on the fizzy stuff. Instead, participants are invited to make their own way to Aÿ, the Grand Cru-rated village in the Champagne region where A&C's £199pp break will be based.
The price includes two nights' accommodation in a B&B, an opening-night tasting session and two visits to small champagne houses, one of which will provide lunch.
