Once grown only in Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon has spread internationally to become the world's most important black winegrape. The Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot and other varieties has become universal, but is also challenged by varietal wines from the New World consisting exclusively of Cabernet Sauvignon. What is the true character of Cabernet Sauvignon? Going behind the scenes, this worldwide survey liberally illustrated with maps and photographs examines the changing nature of Cabernet Sauvignon and its blends: how has Cabernet changed from a herbaceous to a fruit-driven wine? Should Cabernet Sauvignon be drinkable on release or require ageing? And does Cabernet Sauvignon still need to be blended in the era of global warming? How do the top wines of Napa Valley differ from the First Growths of Bordeaux? Has Bordeaux lost its way in adopting a riper international" style? How do its wines compare with Bordeaux blends from Coonawarra or Margaret River? Will global warming eliminate Merlot as a partner for Cabernet Sauvignon? What is the future for blends with Carmenere or Malbec in South America or with Syrah in Australia? Is Bordeaux still the essential reference point or has it been displaced by newer regions? Reviewing Cabernets from all over the world, Claret & Cabs includes profiles of leading producers with tasting notes from current and past vintages, and vintage assessments.

Wines of France provides a comprehensive account of the vineyards and wines of France today. Offering unparalleled range, France has been the world's most important wine-producing country for more than a hundred years, and is the source of the major grape varieties now grown all over the world. Extensively illustrated with photographs and maps of each area, Wines of France reviews wine production in all regions of France, from the top appellation wines to discoveries in Vins de France. Selected wines are suggested as an introduction to each area. From the classics of Burgundy and Bordeaux, to the sparkling wines of Champagne, and the challenging climates of Alsace and the Loire, from the Rhone to the Languedoc and Provence, all of France's wine regions are included. Each chapter ends with detailed vintage information. France's wines are better than ever, but have never been so challenged by competition. Considering the tension between tradition and modernism, Wines of France asks whether France is still the essential reference point for grape varieties and wine styles, explains how production is changing in established regions, and identifies new emerging regions.Leading vineyards and winemakers are profiled in detail, with suggestions for wines to try and vineyards to visit. With comprehensive coverage of the wine-producing regions, and reviews of 500 wine producers, this is the indispensable guide to the wines of France.

Is wine an artisanal creation or industrial product? The first edition of Wine Myths and Reality was widely praised for its innovative view of how wine is made and what distinguishes wines from different places. The world of wine is constantly changing and this second edition is expanded and completely rewritten to take account of new developments. Panoramic in its scope, magisterial in its treatment, and meticulous in its research, Wine Myths and Reality explores the world of wine extensively. From monks treading grapes in the Middle Ages to the latest research into grapevine DNA, this compelling book presents the authoritative account of how wine is really made. Practices in viticulture and vinification are explained, the tricks of the wine trade are revealed, the methods of the New and the Old Worlds are scrutinised, and their wines are evaluated. Extensively illustrated with photographs, maps and charts, the approachable and entertaining style immediately engages the reader in the wine universe. An overview of all major wine-producing countries extends from the powerful wines of the New World to the classic wines of Europe. Does terroir really matter? Is the international style taking over? Will global warming destroy the existing wine-producing regions? And extrapolating from current trends, what will wine be like in the future?