Sarah on June 6, 2014 0 Comments Almost every wine lover will inevitably crave a better understanding of wine. Unlike various fads in fine dining, wine has been a staple drink across cultures for centuries. One of the easiest ways to turn from a wine drinker into a wine aficionado is to simply start reading books about wine. The world of wine encompasses everything from ordering a drink at dinner to the history of civilization. Of course, you may not be inspired to read about the over one thousand different types of grapes used to make wine. Similarly, you may not be dying to learn about Sicilian wine culture, but then again, maybe you are. Whatever stage you are in your quest for wine knowledge, the list below will give you an opportunity to broaden your love of wine through reading. Where Beginners Can Get Started Whether you want to become a Sommelier or just learn a little more about your favorite wine, the following books are great reads to get you started. 1. The World Atlas of Wine Authors: Hugh Johnson & Jancis Robinson Look at The World Atlas of Wine to gain a basic understanding of different regions of wine around the world. It covers all of the basic wine jargon you need to get by in a tasting, ordering, or otherwise wine-laden conversation. Buy on Amazon 2. Kevin Zraly’s Windows on the World Complete Wine Course Author: Kevin Zraly This book is a nice complement to the world atlas. It covers current wine regions in addition to fundamental wine knowledge. Learn how to order red Bordeaux as well as other wine-related things you need to know when out and about. Buy on Amazon Books for Advanced Wine Education The following set of books are all in-depth, more technical and designed to teach you delicate intricacies of wine. With these books, you’re guaranteed to learn more about wine than you’d probably ever thought you would. 3. Wine Grapes: A Complete Guide to 1,368 Vine Varieties, Including Their Origins and Flavours Authors: Jancis Robinson, Julia Harding & Jose Vouillamoz Learn about one fundamental aspect that penetrates all facets of the world of wine—grapes. Wine Grapes provides an in-depth explanation of over 1,300 different varieties of wine grapes. Use it as a reference guide, or read the entire book multiple times. Jancis Robinson has combined numerous pocket guides on wine varieties into a single, comprehensive manual for readers highly interested in exactly what the title suggests. Buy on Amazon 4. Great Domaines of Burgundy: A Guide to the Finest Wine Producers of the Cote d’Or Authors: Remington Norman & Charles Taylor The Great Domaines of Burgundy provides an in-depth look at all of the details in Burgundy vineyards. Learn about the soil, the slope, and everything else that goes into making the phenomenal wine of the region. Buy on Amazon Books to Read Before a Wine Vacation Are you planning a trip to Napa Valley, Italy, France or another area known for their spectacular wine? Before you leave, we’d recommend buying a book about the vineyards in that area before you go. Not only will this give you a better idea of what’s in the area, but also give you the opportunity to learn about each vineyard before you visit. 5. Palmento: A Sicilian Wine Odyssey Author: Robert V. Camuto In Palmento: A Sicilian Wine Odyssey, travel writer and wine expert Robert V. Camuto clearly details the most engaging aspects of Sicily and Sicilian wine. Wine is not only about taste and texture. Sicilian culture is brought to life. The book focuses on a place inspired by wine, and a strong educational element is cleverly woven into the text. This book often makes readers wonder why they have not been to Sicily yet or why they have not returned to Sicily sooner. Buy on Amazon 6. Madeira, The Island Vineyard Author: Noël Cossart Madeira is an intriguing place, whether or not you love red wine. The small piece of paradise in the Atlantic has a rich history and notable effect on Western civilization as we know it. Madeira, The Island Vineyard details red wine, a unique culture, and 500 years of history in a tiny, disconnected part of Portugal. Buy on Amazon Exploring the World of Wine through Storytelling Rather than read an informative wine book, many readers can find a heightened interest about a niche area in the world of wine after reading an entertaining novel or collection of stories. 7. Billionaire’s Vinegar: The Mystery of the World’s Most Expensive Bottle of Wine Author: Benjamin Wallace This book details one of the most notable scams the wine world has on record. Buy on Amazon 8. Adventures on the Wine Route: A Wine Buyer’s Tour of France Author: Kermit Lynch This collection of stories from a top importer of French wine to the United States gives readers more detailed information on the industry. Buy on Amazon 9. Wine and War: The French, the Nazis, and the Battle for France’s Greatest Treasure Authors: Donald Kladstrup & Petie Kladstrup World War II buffs can enjoy reading about French winemakers during the Nazi occupation detailed in Wine and War. Buy on Amazon 10. Judgment of Paris Author: George M. Taber There is more to the wine world than France. People that have less interest in France can see a more global perspective on fine wines by reading Judgment of Paris. Buy on Amazon The Changing World of Wine in Books One of the most exciting things about the world of wine is that it is an ever-changing hallmark of human civilization. Different methods for storing wine are introduced. Different scandals are unveiled. Wine has changed the world as we know it many times over. Begin reading books about this fascinating beverage and further embrace your love of wine. What’s your favorite wine book? We’d love to hear it in the comments below. Recommended Reading: Bottle vs Glass: Which is the Better Value? How Many Calories Are in a Glass of Wine? The Best Cheese Pairings For Different Types of Wine Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Merlot: Differences & Similarities
