Italian Wines is the English-language version of Gambero Rosso's Vini d'Italia, the world's best-selling guide to Italian wine. It is the result of a year's work by over 60 tasters, coordinated by three curators. They travel around the entire country to taste 45,000 wines, only half of which make it into the guide. More than 2,500 producers have been selected. Each entry brings together useful information about the winery, including a description of its most important labels and price levels in Italian wine shops. Each wine is evaluated according to the Gambero Rosso bicchieri rating, with Tre Bicchieri awarded to the top labels. The guide is an essential tool for both wine professionals and passionate amateurs around the globe: it provides the instruments for finding one's way in the complex panorama of Italy's wine world.

This book covers the basics of making wine and how and what various types differ. The author shows you how to train your palate so that you are able judge the relative qualities of the wine you produce. It includes 55 recipes as well as instructions for racking, processing and maturing.

Riesling is the world's seventh most-planted white wine grape variety and among the fastest growing over the past twenty years. It is a personal favorite of many sommeliers, chefs, and other food and wine professionals for its appealing aromatics, finesse, and minerality; for its uncanny ability to reflect terroir; and for its impressive versatility with cuisines of all types. It is stylistically paradoxical, however. Now usually made dry in most of Europe and Australia, and assumed dry by most German consumers, Riesling is made mostly sweet or lightly sweet in North America and is believed sweet in the American marketplace irrespective of origin. Riesling is thus consequently - but mistakenly-shunned by the mainstream of American wine drinkers, whose tastes and habits have been overwhelmingly dry for two generations. Riesling Rediscovered looks at the present state of dry Riesling across the Northern Hemisphere: where it is grown and made, what models and objectives vintners have in mind, and what parameters of grape growing and winemaking are essential when the goal is a delicious dry wine. John Winthrop Haeger explores the history of Riesling to illuminate how this variety emerged from a crowded field of grape varieties grown widely across northern Europe. Riesling Rediscovered is a comprehensive, current, and accessible overview of what many consider to be the world's finest and most versatile white wine.

Denton Marks uses economic analysis, in plain and simple language, to demystify the wine world and to enrich our understanding of it. This remarkable book could well serve as an introduction to the wine industry for economists or as an introduction to economics for the wine industry. Up to date and thorough, Marks has undertaken a prodigious task.' - Orley Ashenfelter, Princeton University, and Co-Founder and President, American Association of Wine Economists, US'What is welcome with Denton Marks's book is its exploration beyond the narrow focus of wine pricing. The outline of how wine fits into key economic processes is illuminating, and the understanding of the political economy of wine is especially helpful. Crucially, the examination of how wine functions as a cultural good is a real expansion of our understanding of its social and economic context, underlining that value is not merely a financial construct but includes intangible, symbolic meaning as well.' - Steve Charters MW, School of Wine and Spirits Business, Burgundy School of Business, France 'Denton Marks's book fills a void in both the economics and the wine-related literature. It offers the economics student insights into the wine world and the wine professionals insights into economic thinking. Certainly, this is the first 'wine economics' textbook.' - Karl Storchmann, New York University, US and Managing Editor, Journal of Wine Economics 'Marks harvests wine's potential as a lens through which to view human economic behavior- and economic misbehavior - taking readers on a sophisticated but accessible and comprehensive tour of the fascinating nooks and crannies of the wine market. Perhaps the crowning achievement is the original and thought-provoking treatment of some of the thorniest philosophical and scientific dilemmas unique to wine, including price signals, asymmetric information, and sensory intersubjectivity. This is a much-needed book from an economist who knows the subject.' - Robin Goldstein, Author of The Wine Trials, Blind Taste, and blindtaste.com/ 'Most professions show a professional interest in wine, and economics is no exception: it can help us understand how wine markets work. But since economics is considered by many as a rather 'dry' subject, wine can boost student enthusiasm for economics. This book exploits those two interests by helping non-economists understand wine producer and consumer behavior and helping college students understand economics.' - Kym Anderson, Wine Economics Research Centre, University of Adelaide and Australian National University, Australia Wine and the wine trade are steeped in culture and history; few products have consistently enjoyed both cultural importance and such wide distribution over time even seen by some as 'an elixir of life'. While wine has been produced and consumed for centuries, what is distinctive about the economics of wine? Professor Marks's book is an accessible exploration of the economics of wine, using both basic principles and specialized topics and emphasizing microeconomics and related research. Drawing upon economic themes such as International Trade and Public Choice, Wine and Economics also relates economic reasoning to management issues in wine markets. The discussion ranges from economic fundamentals and wine and government, to the challenge of knowing what is in the bottle and the importance of wine as a cultural good. This novel and comprehensive introduction to the subject is an invaluable resource for students, scholars and anyone interested in wine and the wine industry.

From celebrations of Bacchus in ancient Rome to the Last Supper and casual dinner parties, wine has long been a key component of festivities, ceremonies, and celebrations. Made by almost every civilization throughout history, in every part of the world, wine has been used in religious ceremonies, inspired artists and writers, been employed as a healing medicine, and, most often, sipped as way to relax with a gathering of friends. Yet, like all other forms of alcohol, wine has also had its critics, who condemn it for the drunkenness and bad behavior that arise with its overconsumption. Wine can render you tongue-tied or philosophical; it can heal wounds or damage health; it can bring society together or rend it. In this fascinating cultural history of wine, John Varriano takes us on a tour of wine's lively story, revealing the polarizing effect wine has had on society and culture through the ages.

From its origins in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to the expanding contemporary industries in Australia, New Zealand, and America, Varriano examines how wine is made and how it has been used in rituals, revelries, and remedies throughout history. In addition, he investigates the history of wine's transformative effects on body and soul in art, literature, and science from the mosaics of ancient Rome to the poetry of Dickinson and Neruda and the paintings of Caravaggio and Manet.

A spirited exploration, this book will delight lovers of sauvignon blanc or pinot noir, as well as those who are interested in the rich history of human creativity and consumption.

This completely updated second edition of the best-selling beer resource features the most current information on beer styles, flavour profiles, sensory evaluation guidelines, craft beer trends, food and beer pairings, and draft beer systems. You'll learn to identify the scents, colours, flavours, mouth-feel, and vocabulary of the major beer styles -- including ales, lagers, weissbeirs, and Belgian beers -- and develop a more nuanced understanding of your favourite brews with in- depth sections on recent developments in the science of taste. Spirited drinkers will also enjoy the new section on beer cocktails that round out this comprehensive volume.

COOL DRINKS FOR HOT SUMMER DAYS With their thirst-quenching profile, crisp acidity, and vibrant fruit flavors, juicy summer cocktails are pure refreshment and just what we crave, whether lounging poolside or working the grill. And here, from expert mixologist and hospitality maven Nick Mautone, are over 45 no-fail recipes for the very best of them, from classics like the pina colada and the Tom Collins to the perfect margarita and a killer mojito. Includes cocktails with wine, like peach sangria, and even fruit-forward alcohol-free cocktails like virgin watermelon punch. Oh, and that world's best gin and tonic? The secret is ginger syrup.

The Absinthe Frappe examines the history of absinthe, its origins, and its influences, culminating in the story of the iconic New Orleans cocktail. Marielle Songy reveals how bartender Cayetano Ferrer invented the concoction and delves into the early days of the drink and its first home, the Old Absinthe House in the Crescent City. She explores the ban on absinthe in the United States and Europe and the misguided reasoning behind it, all in the context of New Orleans's response to national Prohibition more broadly. Finally, Songy discusses the lifting of the restrictions on absinthe in 2007, a move largely spearheaded by New Orleans scientist and master distiller Theodore Breaux, who dispelled long-held notions that the Green Fairy invariably drove its connoisseurs to madness.

The original India Pale Ale was pure gold in a glass; a semi-mythical beer specially invented, in the 19th century, to travel halfway around the world, through storms and tropical sunshine, and arrive in perfect condition for a long, cold drink on an Indian verandah. But although you can still buy beers with 'IPA' on the label they are, to be frank, a pale imitation of the original. For the first time in 140 years, a keg of Burton IPA has been brewed with the original recipe for a voyage to India by canal and tall ship, around the Cape of Good Hope; and the man carrying it is the award-winning Pete Brown, Britain's best beer write. Brazilian pirates and Iranian customs officials lie ahead, but will he even make it that far, have fallen in the canal just a few miles out of Burton? And if Pete does make it to the other side of the world with 'Barry' the barrel, one question remains: what will the real IPA taste like? Weaving first-class travel writing with assured comedy, Hops and Glory is both a rollicking, raucous history of the Raj and a wonderfully entertaining, groundbreaking experiment to recreate the finest beer ever produced.

"This book takes in his introduction to wine - at the age of three! - through his continued travels and championing of New World wines when they were less fashionable." - Matthew Nugent, The Irish Sun "You can feel Oz Clarke's expansive, chatty presence in every sentence" - Telegraph "Frankly, it's the best and most entertaining wine read I've had in years." -Tom Doorley, The Irish Mail "You can never have too much of his captivating enthusiasm and rich knowledge and this is him at his best." - Waitrose magazine There have never been so many delicious and original wines in the world, and to discover them, all you need is a glass in your hand and Oz Clarke - the ideal wine companion. With his inimitable sense of adventure and fun, Oz explains how his fascination with flavour led him to abandon a promising acting career and follow his heart from Chablis to 'the lost Himalayan valleys of Yunnan' in pursuit new taste experiences and wine thrills. He found them! Oz Clarke On Wine takes us on a fast-paced, witty romp around the grape varieties key to the world's major wine styles, then explores the vineyards and regions where a vast trove of wine treasure lies waiting for discovery. Oz's passion for sharing, his deep wine knowledge, and his ability to conjure up the wine world's most beautiful landscapes, make this book the most unputdownable wine read this century. Includes: How Oz fell in love with wine: from his first dramatic encounter on a river-bank (aged three), to his post-performance tasting tales (after 'governing Argentina' as General Peron in the hit show Evita Oz explains how global warming affects what we drink today, and the new styles we can expect 'tomorrow' Organic and Biodynamic wines, Oz's favourite fizz The world's best-tasting wines, from Aconcagua to Okanagan, from Patagonia to east Yorkshire..., and wines to enjoy, from budget to blue chip... For sipping and savouring now. Or to age and enjoy in 10, 20, 30-years' time...

Beer. Friends. Fun. Put them together, and you have a beer fest! Join M. B. Mooney as he travels the United States to bring you the delights of Beer Fest USA. While beer has always been an important part of American culture, the last three decades have seen an explosion in the popularity of craft brews and microbrews, and, along with them, beer festivals. Modeled on their German counterparts such as Munich's Oktoberfest, beer festivals allow brewers to introduce customers to their creations, to educate the public about the differences between various craft beers, to learn from beer drinkers, and to promote friendship. Beer Fest USA introduces beer enthusiasts-novices and seasoned beer geeks alike-to thirteen of the biggest and best beer festivals in the US, giving you a taste of the unique history and flavor of each. So get ready to drink up, laugh with friends, and start planning your next beer festival vacation.

As the world's most popular beverage, tea has fascinated us, awakened us, motivated us, and calmed us for well over two thousand years. A History of Tea tells the compelling story of the rise of tea in Asia and its eventual spread to the West and beyond. From the Chinese tea houses of the ancient Tang Dynasty (618-907) to the Japanese tea ceremonies developed by Zen Buddhist monks, and the current social issues faced by tea growers in India and Sri Lanka--this fascinating book explores the complex history of this universal drink. This in-depth look illuminates the industries and traditions that have developed as tea spread throughout the world and it explains how tea is transformed into the many varieties that people drink each day. It also features a quick reference guide on subjects such as tea types, proper terminology and brewing. Whatever your cup of tea--green, black, white, oolong, chai, Japanese, Chinese, Sri Lankan, American or British--every tea aficionado will enjoy reading A History of Tea to learn more about their favorite beverage.

Discover 50 cocktails inspired by famous artists, their art and their favourite tipples. Shake up delicious art-inspired drinks, from the absinthe-fuelled Pablo Pisco Sour to the verdant Henry Mojito, and discover evocative cocktails that will transport you straight to Toulouse-Lautrec's Moulin Rouge, Frida Kahlo's favourite cantina, or one of Salvador Dali's surrealist dinner parties. Filled with art anecdotes and colourful tales, this is both a whistle-stop tour through art history and an exciting way to wet your whistle. Cocktails include the: * Dali Wallbanger * Klein Blue Moon * Whamm! Bamm! Pow! * Picasso Sour * Frida Kahlua * Rene Margarita * and the Hirst-inspired Shark Bite

Things move quickly in the cocktail fast lane-but slow to a crawl when pregnancy kicks in. Right? Wrong! Even when sporting a "baby bump," modern moms can stay in the social swing of things with Preggatinis, featuring lip-smacking, liquorless libations designed by master mixologist Natalie Bovis-Nelsen, aka "The Liquid Muse." Within these pages are 75 original Preggatini recipes highlighting fresh juices, herbs, and garnishes as well as ideas for Preggatini Parties-a modern spin on the humdrum baby shower. Organized by pregnancy stages and symptoms, this lavishly illustrated, pocket-sized, virtually intoxicating guide also offers quotes from famous moms and sidebars about pregnancy and health and such options as "De-virginize for Dad"-making these drinks applicable to all. Includes a recipe exclusively provided by Celebrity Chef Michel Richard, recipient of the 2007 Outstanding Chef James Beard award, author of Happy in the Kitchen, and owner of the legendary Citronelle restaurant in Washington, DC.

A complete reproduction of the Vintage Cocktail Book "The Ideal Bartender" originally published in 1917. Tom Bullock became to be a well-recognized bartender of the time at St. Louis Country Club, where he served for government officials and other elite members. G.H. Walker, grandfather of George W. Bush was one of the big fans of Bullock's cocktails and wrote the indroduction. After publishing this cocktail book, Prohibition made Bullock's profession illegal, yet bartending culture was stronger than ever, bartenders were well paid and tipped for supplying public a illegal substance of alcohol. Bullock moved frequently and changed professions during the dry period, but kept bartending at St. Louis Country Club where people could still drink. The country club did not keep the records on him working there. Feel free to take a look at our complete Reprint Catalog of Vintage Cocktail Books at www.VintageCocktailBooks.com

Following the success of African Brew, the first ever book to showcase the South African craft beer scene, beer-centric author Lucy Corne is back with a second homage to hops and grain. Beer Safari takes readers on a journey through the microbreweries of South Africa, stopping to chat to each brewer along the way.

The book is laid out geographically to assist the reader in planning his or her own beer safari. Look out for the 'Big Five Pints' – the author’s pick of the very best South African craft beers. There is also space for beer aficionados to scribble their own tasting notes alongside each brewery’s beer menu.

Beer Safari is the only South African beer book whose author has, in person, visited every one of the 100-plus breweries to get the brewers’ stories, photograph their often quirky brewing setups and of course, to taste their beers. Peppered between the inspiring tales of passionate brewers, are snippets of essential beer knowledge – ideal for the 'beerginner' – alongside checklists that will appeal to newbie beer drinkers and veterans alike. Whether readers are looking for family-friendly beery weekends away, the cutest brewpubs with the finest views or a list of where to go for South Africa’s hoppiest ales, Beer Safari is a comprehensive and user-friendly guide.

The directory showcases everything needed to continue the beer journey – for those who prefer to enjoy other people’s wares, there are recommendations for liquor stores and bars offering a supreme selection of beer. Those who yearn to brew their own will find information on homebrewing stores, courses and clubs throughout the country. Written in Corne’s signature light-hearted style, and with a fresh, vibrant design, Beer Safari perfectly captures the exciting and unpretentious nature that characterises the South African craft beer scene.

There is no other wine that is as versatile, as utterly unique in its range and production methods--and, unfortunately, as misunderstood--as sherry. For centuries, sherry was considered one of the world's great wines, spoken about in the same reverential terms as the finest Bordeaux and Burgundies. But in the last few decades, sherry lost its way--and cheap, cloyingly sweet blends sullied the reputation of what remains one of Spain's oldest and greatest winemaking traditions.
Thankfully, sherry is in the midst of a renaissance. Beloved of sommeliers and bartenders in the craft cocktail community, today sherry is being re-discovered and re-appreciated as an incredible table wine "and "essential component of many classic cocktails.
"Sherry "is essential reading for wine or spirits professionals looking to incorporate this complex wine into their menu, and for adventurous drink enthusiasts who are on the hunt for something unexpected. With a comprehensive yet accessible overview of the different styles of sherry, how they are made, and the people and places that produce it, "Sherry "demystifies what can be a confusing (and seemingly contradictory) wine. A thorough buyer's guide lists top producers and profiles the very best bodegas and wines.
Finally, a whole chapter on sherry-based cocktails illuminates a completely different side of sherry, featuring classic recipes like the Tuxedo and Sherry Cobbler, as well as modern creations from the country's top bartenders (Jim Meehan's East India Negroni, Derek Brown's Kojo Cocktail). More than a dozen recipes for tapas and other delicious foods--best eaten alongside a glass of sherry, of course--round out this wonderfully eclectic, engaging, and inspiring collection.

Toast to the good life with the Red Rocker's best cocktail recipes! Sammy Hagar may be best known as the former frontman of the iconic band Van Halen. His fans know him as the Red Rocker and as the songwriter behind hits like "I Can't Drive 55," "Right Now," and "Why Can't This Be Love." However, music is just one of his passions. Sammy is a businessman, a connoisseur of great cocktails, and the creator of Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy's Beach Bar Rums, and-along with his good friend and celebrity restaurateur Guy Fieri-a line of Santo Tequilas and Mezquila. He created Cabo Wabo Cantinas and Sammy's Beach Bar & Grills so people could hang out with their friends and families, have a few drinks, laugh, and enjoy the good times and unique cultures of the places he enjoys most-and the recipes in Sammy's Cocktail Hits: 85 Personal Favorites from the Red Rocker reflect those differences. In addition to bartending basics and cocktail foundations, chapters include: Splash of Aloha! - Hawaii's coolest cocktails Mas Tequila - South of the Border cocktails Sinful Signatures - VIP, Vegas-inspired cocktails Tinseltown Twists with Cleveland Pre-Funk - an original mix of Hollywood and Cleveland's best cocktails Encore - More of Sammy's personal favorite cocktails Enjoy drinks such as the Coconut Mojito, Maui Mama, Tiki Swizzle, Blanco Gimlet, Coco Loco, Coronarita, Santo Oaxaca, Santa Paloma, Brazilian Kiss, Vojito, Strawberry Surf, and Black & Blue Lemonade, and more!

The Whisky Cubes Pack is the perfect gift for any lover of whisky. Not only does the pack contain a book informing the whisky-lover about hundreds of whisky brands and distillers in Britain, Ireland and North America, there is a guide to the process of distillation and tasting notes. In addition to this, the pack contains eight soapstone cubes which can be placed in a freezer and dropped into a glass and used as a replacement for ice, one that doesn't dilute the golden liquid.

The author, Jim Murray, is one of the most respected men in whisky, on both sides of the Atlantic and his passionate views about Scotch, Irish, Rye and Bourbon are respected by those in the know. He writes in a unique style, with his passion coming through as he explains why a distillery is different to its neighbour maybe only a few miles away and showing how a slight variation in the distillation and/or storage process makes for an entirely different tasting experience. If you are already a connoisseur of whisky, want to become one, or just enjoy the occasional tipple, The Whisky Cubes Pack is as welcome as your favourite dram.