Plain Talk About Fine Wine
One of the most reputable wine makers in the United States, Meyer founded the prestigious Silver Oak Winery in the Napa Valley in 1972. In. the foreword written by the distinguished Robert MondavL the tone of the book is explained: ..wine is the temperate, civilized, romantic mealtime beverage ... the natural beverage for every celebration...." He also points out several critical truths, among them that the abuse of wine (like medicine or food) can be negative, and that in spite of its importance, the wine industry receives little or no assistance from the government (unlike other countries). In discussing tasting and appreciation. Meyer is clever, honest, and basic. In an effort to be educational and conversational, he avoids preaching or-worse--condescending. Like most really good winemakers, he cares about enlightening his Teader/consumer in the joys of wine and food, viticulture, vineyard operations and the wine-making processes, and he provides a bit of the history of American wines. He includes helpful line drawings and a useful little chapter on health. His light touch and ability to deliver a considerable amount of information in a concise, readable style will make the book interesting to wine novices and Silver Oak devotees. There isn't a lot of new and different information, but it is nicely presented and will be readily understood by oenology neophytes. Libraries needing an introduction-to-wine book (and at a fair price) should consider. --FromIndependent Publisher