In The Booklovers’ Guide to Wine, Patrick Alexander
brings together his lifelong passions for wine and literature into an enjoyable
wine book with a literary twist. Patrick began bringing these passions together
in a very popular wine appreciation class in Coral Gables, Florida over six years
ago, which has been selling out since its inception. Patrick has taken his wine
class to book form in The Booklovers’ Guide to Wine, which covers everything
from wine tasting, winemaking, the terroir of Europe, the development of wine
in the New World, and a vast array of wine grape varieties, all while mixing in
literary insight.
While I’ve read quite a few wine books, I think The
Booklovers’ Guide to Wine really differentiates itself in its presentation of
wine history, not only in its own history, but also the profound impact wine
has had on historical events through the ages. Patrick shares his knowledge of
the development of winemaking throughout the world, from the Spanish
Missionaries in the Americas through the vast influence of the British Empire.
This historical context is carried through into a detailed description of the
terroirs of Europe and the New World. This is where I learned the most from The
Booklovers’ Guide to Wine. What makes Burgundy truly unique? Ever wonder how
Shiraz made it to Australia or Malbec to Argentina? Patrick has your answers.
The in-depth guide to grape varieties and wine varietals
goes deeper into the literary slant by pairing great writers to grape varieties
and wines. Patrick does a good job of bringing together the grape varieties,
wines they are made into, along with their individual characteristics and
origin. He embraces his literary interest by pairing a multitude of grape
varieties with great writers throughout history, such as Charles Dickens with
Cabernet Sauvignon. While Patrick does intertwine literary references through
the book, one doesn’t need to be a literature aficionado to enjoy it. The
literary aspects act as a means to enhance the context of Patrick’s narrative.
The Booklovers’ Guide to Wine also serves as a practical
wine guide with excellent pairing and purchasing advice. Patrick provides
encouragement and guidance on exploring wines that may be new to readers. The
world of wine is a big one, so the advice on wines to explore will help readers
expand their horizons. Patrick’s approachable suggestions will help readers
likely find some new favorites that won’t break the bank. I know his Top 40
Wines to Try list is something I’m going to revisit to expand my knowledge of
wine.
Patrick’s conversational writing style and wit makes
readers feel as if they are attending his class. The Booklovers’ Guide to Wine
covers vast amounts of information without ever becoming dry in delivery. I
found myself making quick progress through the 350-plus pages, continuously
engaged along the way. Isn’t that what we all want from a good book?
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