As far as I am aware, this is the most complete history of wine in one book. A must for wine buffs. Wax lyrical on your friends at your next dinner party.

A great review of the wine world of the last 20 odd years and the way the 'critics' are controlling our palates, tastes and wine styles. Love him or hate him, its worth checking out and may hopefully make you think twice next time you read a wine review...

For my money one of the more interesting drinks in terms of history, production and cultural identity. Great book, the best I have seen on the topic...beware of tequila 'history' books full of Margarita recipes! This on digs deep into the agricultural side as well and production and marketing.

Fantastic book. Great detailed history filled with famous paintings from famous painters famously smashed out they minds on the green fairy. Is a pro absinthe book - and helps explain the cloudy history of its banning and subsequent return sans wormwood.

Another drink with a very readable history. Covers styles and production techniques as well. A really great all round book.

Definitely the place to go for reference. Enjoy having a half drunken argument about the the effect of ethyl acetate vs acetic acid? I hope not, but anyway, this is your book. Plus much much more - heard this referred to as the 'bible'. Thats my kind of religion.

Ok, its not alcohol - but those interested in wine, beer etc usually enjoy a good dark brew as well. Throughly enjoyed this read, such a dense history and still today a massive component of the world economy. A really interesting read.