On Wine: A Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Tells All [Illustrated] [Hardcover]

Doug Frost (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 5, 2002

On Wine, written by Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Doug Frost-- one of three people in the world with these credentials-- combines an authoritative, entertaining, down-to-earth discussion of wine for what it is-- a drink to be enjoyed-- with stunning four-color photography, illustrations, and maps. Frost's uncanny ability to articulate the many facets of enjoying wine simply and accurately makes this an excellent reference for novices who want to better educate themselves on the subject and for more experienced oenophiles who wish to hone their knowledge.

Topics covered here include: the history of wine, including winemaking yesterday and today; understanding varietals, with an in-depth discussion of the most important ones, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, and a guide to the others; how wine is made, with information on climate, barrels, and fortification; a survey of the world's wine-producing regions and their wines; understanding labels; pairing wines with food; an extensive listing of Frost's choice of the best wine producers in every major wine-making region worldwide; and an extensive glossary of "winespeak."

With a foreword by Robert Mondavi, this beautiful illustrated book is essential reading for every wine lover.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

Down-to-earth and full of good information, Doug Frost's On Wine reflects its author's relaxed yet authoritative approach to the grape's joys. Why is wine less popular in America than it should be? "Because people are confused as to how it's to be used," says the commonsensical Frost, one of only three people to have achieved Master of Wine and Master Sommelier distinctions. Addressing this fundamental issue, as well as a host of other wine topics, Frost provides a quick, though comprehensive, wine survey. Absolute wine neophytes may require more rudimentary material, but most readers will benefit from Frost's perspective-expanding opinion.

Beginning with the history of wine and winemaking today, which also includes useful information on wine styles ("the grape plus the region generally equals the style," says Frost), the book then offers an extensive section on grape types like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and pinot noir; information on winemaking and production; a survey of the world's wine-yielding regions and their wines; label "anatomies"; wine and food pairing; and Frost's own pick of the best winemakers in every important winemaking place. An extensive glossary plus a shopping list of Frost's favored wine picks conclude this pithy, useful work. --Arthur Boehm

Review

"[Doug Frost] likely knows as much as anyone in the world about how to make, market, serve, and identify wine."--Jerry Shriver, USA Today

"Doug Frost's approach to wine embraces our past and propels us into the future."--Douglas Rodriguez, chef, Chicama Restaurant

"On Wine is a comprehensive technical resource loaded with fun facts that every passionate wine and food enthusiast will really enjoy."--Clifford Pleau, executive chef, The California Grill

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 144 pages
• Publisher: Rizzoli (October 5, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0847823350
• ISBN-13: 978-0847823352
• Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,166,178 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars reading and drinking--a match made in heaven!, September 27, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: On Wine: A Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Tells All (Hardcover)

With wine so "in" right now, it's hard to find books that get beyond the what-to-order-with-fish stage without being snooty. That's why Doug Frost is great--he knows EVERYTHING about wine, but he presents information in a way that is accessible and even fun. He even pokes some gentle fun at wine snobs. This book covers history, styles, tastes and aromas, regions, and, yes, what goes with food. It's thorough, but it's also fun, and the pictures are gorgeous. I recommend reading with a glass--hell, a bottle--of $12 syrah.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars a must have for all, September 7, 2005

By 

Paul Einbund (san francisco, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: On Wine: A Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Tells All (Hardcover)

As a professional sommelier I read a lot of wine books. this is a must have for beginners and pro's alike. Great to start your passion with a good book behind you but also informative enough for me to be reading every word and learning more about the basics. The grape guide is awesome with Doug's personal take on most of the grapes I have ever encountered. Easy and fun to read
Go Doug Go
the cork dork rules

5.0 out of 5 stars Makes a Wonderful Christmas Gift!, January 19, 2010

By 

Denito - See all my reviews

This review is from: On Wine: A Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Tells All (Hardcover)

I gave this to my husband for Christmas.
It's entertaining to read and very informative.
Love the section that explains "wine speak."