Book Club Discussion Questions

  1. Which of the four Burgundy bottle moments in Audrey’s life resonated with you most, and why? The Train Ride. The furniture Delivery, Meeting Sergei, or Audrey’s 100ty birthday?
  2. Did your perception of Audrey shift over the course of the novel? Did your feelings about her change after she reunited with Sergei?
  3. DNA results play a major role in the story. Do you think uncovering the truth about one’s ancestry brings closure—or chaos?
  4. The novel blends historical and contemporary timelines. Did you connect more with the past or present storylines? Why?
  5. Food, music, and wine are central to this book. How do these elements define the identity of the characters?
  6. What does the Stradivarius violin symbolize in the story? How does it link the characters across time?
  7. What role does Gertrude Anna play? How do you feel about her DNA revelations?
  8. How did the setting—especially Beaune and Paris—enhance the storytelling?
  9. Who was your favorite character, and which one surprised you the most?
  10. The final scene brings several generations together. Did it offer a satisfying resolution? Why or why not?