American Wine, by Jancis Robinson and Linda Murphy
A reference book, in the style of The World Atlas, on the wines of the USA.
The science of sauvignon blanc, by Jamie Goode
Various research institutes in NZ and France have been researching sauvignon blanc for some years, and Goode has brought together some of that research in a book that aims to provide growers and winemakers up to date information so they are better equipped to achieve the flavour profiles they’re looking for. There’s some interesting stuff for MW students and the like, too.
How to love wine – a memoir and manifesto, by Eric Asimov
This is a sort of a “Feel the fear and do it anyway” book. Asimov discusses fear of wine (wine anxiety, he calls it) in the USA but I struggle to imagine the anxiety is much different in the UK for those not wanting to embarrass themselves by choosing the ‘wrong’ wine to go with their dinner, or not spotting a faulty wine in a restaurant.
The Finest Wines of Germany, by Stephan Reinhardt
For a lover of cool climate wines I’m already pre-disposed to want to like this book.
The Complete Bordeaux, Stephen Brook
It is difficult for interested consumers to get an intimate appreciation for particular properties in Bordeaux, where it might be easier in other parts of the world, so someone with Stephen’s reputation and gravitas becomes the conduit through which consumers, and industry, learn.
Wine Grapes, Jancis Robinson, Julia Harding, José Vouillamoz
This has been a much-awaited and anticipated book. It will undoubtedly race to its place ahead of the few other ‘must stock’ books in any serious winey-person’s library.
The Winegrowers’ Handbook
Given the justified flush of enthusiasm for UK wines this is a timely addition to the library for anyone looking to become better acquainted with the practical and environmental challenges of viticulture in the UK, though its clear focus is for folk thinking of setting up their own vineyard and making their own wine, in the garden or more expansively.
The Makers of American Wine
Emeritus professor Pinney takes the reader through the last 200 years of USA winemaking history through a collection of chapters of luminaries of the USA wine industry.
Brunello di Montalcino by Kerin O’Keefe
It’s not too often a single (small) appellation merits an entire book all to itself. After the Brunello-gate scandal of 2008 it probably needs a book all to itself to help restore its reputation. As a long-standing italo-phile and Italy resident, but not a native Italian, O’Keefe’s commentary has an attractive independence of voice.
A Carafe of Red
This is a collection of essays, snapshots of Asher’s wine writing from the 80s and 90s, almost all in Europe, languid tales of wine and history and culture, with remarkable relevance, even insight, for today. Worth a read.
