Vines, Grapes, and Wines

Library Journal

Robinson, author of The Great Wine Book ( LJ 2/1/83 ), approaches wine in this book by examining the nearly 1000 varieties of grapes used by winemakers around the world. Maps of major wine producing regions show the international distribution of grapevine varieties. More detailed maps and descriptions of great vineyards illustrate the effects of climate and geography on the selection of grapevines. Descriptions of 9 ``classic'' and 28 ``major'' vine varieties present qualitative and quantitative assessments of the most popular grapes. A country by country listing of less popular varieties adds information about the taste and status of hundreds of unique wine grapes. This is an important and accessible book for wine connoisseurs. Recommended for larger collections. Peter C. Leonard, Carnegie Lib. of Pittsburgh