Victoria Moore : Wine books for Christmas gifts. Illustrated by Simone Massoni
The New French Wine
amazon.com/New-French-Wine-Two-Book-Boxed/dp/1607749238
American writer Jon Bonné spent eight years crafting "The New French Wine," a comprehensive guide that explores the ever-evolving landscape of French wine. Bonné's insightful narrative delves into the transformation happening in Champagne, the ascent of St. Joseph in the Rhône, and the surge in organic farming, highlighting the dynamism within French winemaking. While priced around £100, this substantial, two-volume work spans 850 pages. One volume narrates the story, while the other serves as a reference for producers. Ideal for French wine enthusiasts, it's a perfect addition to your Christmas wish list, promising to reshape your understanding of French wine.
Vines in a Cold Climate: The People Behind the English Wine Revolution
amazon.co.uk/Vines-Cold-Climate-English-Revolution/dp/1838956654
For those curious about English vineyards, consider "Vines in a Cold Climate: The People Behind the English Wine Revolution" by Henry Jeffreys. This engaging and historically rich exploration of English wine, priced at a more accessible £16.99, offers witty character sketches and a lively account of the industry's journey.
Story Of Wine: 8,000 Years, 100 Bottles
amazon.com/Oz-Clarkes-Story-Wine-Bottles/dp/B0CDQCN7JN
Renowned wine expert Oz Clarke's "Story Of Wine: 8,000 Years, 100 Bottles" (Pavilion, £30) provides an enchanting perspective on wine's history through the lens of 100 bottles. Clarke's storytelling prowess shines, making this reissued title a must-have for wine enthusiasts.
The Complete Bordeaux Vintage Guide: One Hundred and Fifty Years from 1870 to 2020
amazon.com/Complete-Bordeaux-Vintage-Guide-Years/dp/1787139808
For Bordeaux aficionados, Neal Martin's "The Complete Bordeaux Vintage Guide: One Hundred and Fifty Years from 1870 to 2020" (Quadrille, £35) is an essential reference. Delve deeper into Bordeaux with "From Bordeaux to the Stars: The Reawakening of a Wine Legend" by Jean-Michel Cazes (Academie du Vin, £35), offering a captivating memoir filled with historical insights.
Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud
amazon.com/Vintage-Crime-Short-History-Fraud/dp/0520385934
Rebecca Gibb's "Vintage Crime: A Short History of Wine Fraud" (University of California Press, £25) sheds light on intriguing wine-related tales, although it missed the recent Rudy Kurniawan story about counterfeit wine tastings.
Wine Recommendations
Pierre Jaurant French Fitou 2022 from Aldi (£6.99) for an affordable, plummy red.
Ch Liversan Haut-Médoc 2015 at Waitrose for £10
Magnum of Quinta do Noval Colheita Single Harvest Tawny Port 2009 from The Wine Society (£130), a remarkable choice with a medley of flavors, perfect for festive occasions.
