Peugeot cranks it up a notch

We’ve had our flings with one-handed spring-loaded peppermills and push-button peppermills with built-in flashlights. But in the end, there’s nothing like a Peugeot. If anyone makes a better pepper grinder, we’ve never found it. The 196-year-old French firm has some experience with mills: It began life as a grain mill in eastern France and made its name as a manufacturer of hand-cranked coffee mills. And yes, it’s the same company that makes cars. Why is this peppermill so good? The Peugeot grinding mechanism -- which first cracks and then grinds the peppercorns -- always works smoothly and perfectly. And the little knob on top that let’s you control the grind -- from very fine to very coarse -- works with wonderful precision. This 12-inch-high, dark-red lacquered wood model holds enough Tellicherry or Sarawak that you don’t have to refill every 10 seconds. Comes with a lifetime warranty.

12-inch Peugeot peppermill, $59.99 at Sur la Table stores.

-- Leslie Brenner