Three renowned wine experts take you on a glorious and grand tour of the wines of the world in Exploring Wine. An essential and dynamic reference for wine lovers as well as seasoned professionals, this compelling volume penetrates the mystique surrounding wine, freeing you to explore with confidence. Exploring wine demystifies wine as it follows the exciting path from the vine to the table. The book begins by focusing on the basics: grape growing and wine making, an ideal starting point-and compass-for your journey. Next, you will learn how to fine-tune your senses to develop your own approach to the pleasures of wine as the authors explain what to look for in the glass-appearance, aroma and bouquet, and, of course, taste. Exploring wine visits the major and minor wine-producing regions in the Old World and the New World, providing a comprehensive working knowledge of the history, geography, wine laws, vineyards, producers, and styles of wines produced in each region. Featuring detailed, specially commissioned full-color maps and beautiful color photographs-mostly from the authors' own archives-along with extensive highlighted interviews with the people who make up the modern global wine business, Exploring Wine brings complex subject matter to life with grace and style. The authors provide sound strategies and logical guidelines for wine and food pairing to bring out the best in every dining experience, from a picnic to a once-in-a-lifetime meal. Next, they report on and examine important current research and trends in wine and health. Turning to professional issues, Exploring Wine covers worldwide trends, wine lists, wine service, and wine storage. Unique in the world of wine books, extensive quotes from internationally recognized sommeliers, chefs, and restaurateurs bring key issues "to the table" for consideration and discussion by both the professional and the consumer. Exploring wine is a treasure of knowledge, clarity, and encyclopedic breadth. The authors invite you to join them in a great adventure, discovering the myriad messages in a bottle.