Book Review: 1000 Best Wine Secrets
I’ve finally had a chance to peruse the copy of 1000 Best Wine Secrets that I was sent for review. It’s written by Carolyn Hammond and available at Amazon for $11. Apparently, this is one in a series of 1000 Best (other examples include tips for weddings and organization), which confirms my assessment that this would be a good tool for a beginner.
Strong points
The lay-out allows the reader to scan facts individually…picking up a bit here and there…although there are chapters, such as “Serving Wine Like a Pro” and “Swiss Wine.” The index is fairly comprehensive, and there is a comparatively thorough section on French wines. In addition to flavor generalizations, the author also includes random tasting notes of specific wines.
Weaker points
The numbered facts, while making it easy to scan, can cause a disjointed feeling when reading, as the ideas jump back and forth. My other major concern was that some of the break-down by country seemed to focus on information about the same producers over and over. I especially noticed this in the sections on Champagne and California. With CA, it was Rosenblum (of which I’m a big fan and can afford) and the unattainable Screaming Eagle (which I cannot).
Overall, an easy approach and good way to get some information under your belt quickly.
wine book, review, 1000 Best Wine Secrets
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