First published in hardcover as Oz Clarke’s Encyclopedia of Grapes, Oz Clarke’s Grapes and Wines is newly revised and updated to provide the most current information on an even wider array of grapes. Oz covers chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, and fifteen other "classic" grapes in depth, and includes features on tradition and innovation, methods used in the vineyard and the winery, and different wine styles around the world. He also provides vivid descriptions of more than three hundred grape varieties organized in his renowned A-to-Z format, as well as a glossary of technical terms and a wine decoder that lists which grapes go into which wines.This authoritative volume by one of the world’s great wine writers is all you need to distinguish among grape varieties— the wines they create and the flavors they contribute—and to make an informed choice on selecting the most satisfying wines.

“An exhilarating wine book... No serious wine lover’s library is complete without it” Wine Spectator Grapes & Wines is the key to enjoying modern wine. Approaching wine through grapes is in tune with the way consumers now think and learn about wine. Most wines, especially those from the Americas, Australasia and South Africa, are now sold under the name of the grape variety used rather than under the old European system of chateau and appellation name. You’re standing in a wine shop and see bottles labeled Aglianico or Tannat. Do you know what they are? Garnatxa sounds familiar and it is, as it is the Basque name of the popular Grenache grape, but how do you know this? You’ve heard of Carmenere from Chile, and probably bought the wine, but did you know it is an old historic Bordeaux variety? This is the perfect book to help you find out more about the world’s top classic grapes, from Cabernet Sauvignon to Zinfandel – the history, the places, the people, the wine styles and the flavours are covered in detail. It is also just the book for dipping into as you come across an unfamiliar grape variety. Grapes & Wines has been thoroughly revised and updated.

This is an exhilarating books; every page explores an unexpected angle, another point of view or a fresh controversy ... No serious wine lover's library is complete without it.

Australian wine has become a major player in recent years, taking the American market by storm with its upfront fruit, clear flavors, and eminent drinkability. In this handy companion, internationally renowned wine writer Oz Clarke offers readers and travelers an extensive and entertaining look at one of the world's most exciting wine-producing countries. Here the wine lover will find the best Australian wines at every level, from everyday easy-drinking wines to truly great classic wines. With his signature wit and style, Oz shares personal anecdotes from his frequent trips to Australia, discusses key Australian grapes and key wine regions, profiles more than 160 of the country's top producers, and presents labels and tasting notes on more than a hundred wines. Major wine-growing areas are featured in full-color photographs, and top vineyard areas are illustrated with panoramic maps.

An introduction to the world of wine by the acclaimed wine writer covers the basics of grapes, regions, and vintages, and ends his tour on the wine rack with valuable advice on how to choose the best bottle.

Oz uses his trademark wit and irreverent style to teach you the basics of wine appreciation and show you how to get more out of a bottle of wine, and find out what is really inside. Have you ever gone into your local wine shop or looked at the wine list in your local bar and thought with a sense of panic ‘Help, what do I choose?’... What sort of wine do I fancy today? A refreshing white? A summery red to take on a picnic or a spicy wine to go with a winter’s stew?’ Well, Oz is here to help. Split into sections covering basics (wine at a glance, good grape guide, wine styles, from grape to glass and quick guide to countries); practical stuff (what the label tells you, the canny wine buyer, essential kit, serving and keeping wine); and becoming a wine geek (tasting wine, starting your own collection, finding out more and quick guide to names in wine). Oz will be your guide through the world of fascinating flavours and help you find the sort of wine you enjoy drinking. Dip into this book and you will find a quick, accessible guide to wine styles: what is warm and spicy or chewy and blackcurranty? He recommends wines to try; and explains what the label tells you about the taste and quality of the wine and whether it is any good or not. Soon you will be confident enough to choose between flavoursome reds such as Shiraz or Pinot Noir, and refreshing whites from Alberiño to Sauvignon Blanc. The book is divided into short, easy to read topics, with recommended wines to try covering all styles and flavours. Now is the moment to grab that glass, learn about what is inside that bottle and taste while you read...

Completely updated with a sparkling new interior, "The Essential Wine Book" offers "the best introductory text to wine and the most enjoyable (one) to read" (Robert Parker). 175 color photographs. 350 color wine labels. 60 maps.