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Wine Folly


Synopsis


Want to pick the perfect wine for dinner? Red, white or Rose? Dry or Fruity? Spanish or Portuguese? Discover the answer with Wine Folly . . .

A Fortnum & Mason Drink Book of the Year 2015

Red or white? Cabernet or Merlot? Medium or full-bodied?

Drinking great wine isn't hard, but finding a great wine is much easier when you understand the fundamentals.

Using visual infographics, charts and maps, the expert founders of Wine Folly have created the ultimate wine resource packed with countless facts, information and guidance.

From tips on which glasses to use, and easy-to-grasp flavour wheels for each wine type, to simple tasting and food-pairing notes, Wine Folly is a fascinating modern and colourful guide.

This accessible book will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy great wines in a whole new way.

Madeline Puckette, Justin Hammack

Summary

Chapter 1: Grapes

* Summary: Introduces the major grape varieties used in winemaking, their origins, characteristics, and wine styles they produce.
* Example: Cabernet Sauvignon: A red grape variety known for its bold tannins, flavors of dark fruit, and ability to age well.

Chapter 2: The Winery

* Summary: Explains the winemaking process from grape cultivation to bottling, including harvesting, fermentation, aging, and blending.
* Example: Barrel aging: Oak barrels add complexity and flavor to wine through exposure to oxygen and tannins from the wood.

Chapter 3: Wine Regions

* Summary: Explores the major wine regions of the world, including their climates, soil types, and signature grape varieties.
* Example: Bordeaux, France: A renowned wine region known for its red wines made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

Chapter 4: Wine Styles

* Summary: Classifies wines into various styles based on their characteristics such as sweetness, body, and acidity.
* Example: Sauvignon Blanc: A dry white wine with crisp acidity, flavors of grapefruit and lime, and a light to medium body.

Chapter 5: Wine and Food

* Summary: Provides guidelines for pairing wine with different cuisines, considering the flavors and textures of both the food and the wine.
* Example: Pinot Noir: Pairs well with grilled salmon due to its light body, acidity, and flavors of red fruit that complement the delicate flavors of the fish.

Chapter 6: Wine and Health

* Summary: Discusses the potential health benefits of moderate wine consumption, including the presence of antioxidants and the association with reduced risk of heart disease.
* Example: Resveratrol: An antioxidant found in red wine that has been linked to cardiovascular health benefits.

Chapter 7: Wine and History

* Summary: Examines the historical evolution of winemaking and its role in ancient civilizations, religious ceremonies, and social gatherings.
* Example: Ancient Egyptians: Wine was used in religious rituals and consumed during everyday life.

Chapter 8: Wine and the Future

* Summary: Discusses current trends and innovations in the wine industry, including sustainable viticulture practices, biodynamic viticulture, and the rise of natural wines.
* Example: Orange wine: A natural wine made from white grapes fermented with their skins, resulting in a unique amber-orange color and flavors of oxidative aging.

Chapter 9: The Wine Book

* Summary: Provides a comprehensive encyclopedia of wine-related terms, varieties, and regions.
* Example: Chardonnay: A widely planted white grape variety known for its versatility and ability to produce wines ranging from light and crisp to rich and buttery.

Chapter 10: Wine and the World

* Summary: Explores the global impact of winemaking, its economic importance, and the cultural traditions associated with wine consumption.
* Example: Argentina: A major wine producer known for its Malbec red wines, which have gained popularity worldwide.