Great for the beginner, and wine lover both
"Although from a different publisher, and a shorter author’s name, this book had a previous volume in 2005. I have read that one, and used it to help teach myself about different wines when I gathered with friends. Like the previous edition, this one divides the wine tastings into 12 months, each month spotlighting either a varietal, or a style. And, like the first, it is VERY good at teaching you about wine. One of the things about the old volume that made it dated was that it suggested specific wines by certain winemakers. This one, though mentioning a few winemakers, goes for a more general suggestion, and in my opinion is a better way of doing it. When I bought the book back in 2009, the wines listed in the original book were hard to find, and not necessarily the best spotlight for the chapter. And, sadly, my knowledge at the time was not great so that I could sub out easily. This book, however, lets one be more flexible. A good change for the future of this book. I am also liking the more streamlined look for this book in the set up, boxes for some interesting wine trivia, and for the actual wine experience. It is easy to find what wines you need, what information you need to conduct a good tasting, and several delightful recipes to pair with the wines suggested. I can use this book for the year as it suggests, or even use it for future tastings with friends six years from now. I am a bit more experienced in wine these many years past, but I learned several new things with this edition, and I found that a few of the months I am itching to try with my friends!! This book is a wonderful introduction for those just starting out in their wine knowledge, but also a great resource for having wine tastings with those who are a bit more seasoned in their tastes. The recipes alone make this a book to have on your shelf. I highly recommend this book to have on your shelf, and though I read this originally in electronic form, I am wanting to get a hard copy to have for my shelf. And, maybe give one for a gift or two."