Customer Reviews

Overstreet's New Wine Guide: Celebrating the New Wave in Winemaking

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

For a man who claims to have so much wine knowledge, I found quite a few errors in his book; some so severe that I was compelled to give a two star rating. One that I couldn't beleive was that he states that Pinot Noir is the only red grape variety in Burgundy. Not true, there is the Gamay which is grown throughout the Beaujolais district. The book is written well enough, and there is some good info here and there. The problem is the obvious biases he has with his so called "new age wine making buddies." (but I guess this is what he set out to achieve) But, I get a little confused as to the title. Most of the techniques he talks about as being "new" have been around for 20-30 years. In addition, as another reader commented, he does spend a lot of time talking about his wine shop in 90210 land where he has catered to "many celebraties." If you want a great book about wine, check out Windows on the World by Kevin Zraley; this will get you into wine as he talks about wines of the world, not just about "new wine methods."

Overstreet's enthusiasm for wine is quite evident in this book. Whether you're an enthusiast or neophyte looking to learn, this book will delight and hold your interest. "Overstreet's New Wine Guide is well written --without the usual gobbledygook (and pretension) associated with the subject of fine wine. It will be enjoyed and utilized as a source of reference for many years to come.

Overstreet's New Wine Guide is the best wine book I've read in the past year. Definitely not your typical soporific wine tome, Dennis Overstreet's energy and enthusiasm make this a fun read. And his extensive knowledge of the subject make it a must read for every wine lover. Overstreet, along with coauthor David Gibbons, has written an exciting, unusual, truly refreshing book. Wine lovers of every level of expertise will enjoy this irresistible book that is free of pretension, arbitrary ratings and esoteric jargon. And, the photographs by Catherine Leuthold are exceptional.

Wow, is this book a disappointment. It basically serves as a promotional tool for Dennis Overstreet and his Beverly Hills wine store (as well as his wine tasting buddies). It offers few areas of sound practical advice, substituting help with sales pitches and explanations why his wine store is the best. If you are looking for real wine help, the best book of all time is "Wine for Dummies" - it may sound silly, but this book covers all areas and is truly the best choice.

Overstreets New Wine Guide is a must for the "wine-adventurous"! Lots of great pointers on new and up coming vintners...a great read!

Dennis Overstreet delivers an enticing look at the world of wine; one that taunts irreverence and exudes authority, save the all too familiar presumptuous tone. This is a rare find that will appeal to the most discriminating of connoisseurs and those who have newly discovered this marvelous realm. The brilliant photography and beau monde design throughout deliver a hip, seductive book that merits stars based on aesthetics alone. Appealing and informative, this book is appropriate for even the most presumptuous of Manhattan coffee tables and a must for the true wine enthusiast.

If you want a book that will tell you to go out and purchase X vintage of Y wine, this is not the book for you. A dry and boring "guidebook" this is not. If you want something that talks about the passion and pleasure of wine, this is something you will enjoy a great deal ... no matter your level of expertise.