Why Should You Learn about Wine?

One of my favorite things to do, besides enjoy a good glass of wine, is to read. I’m a big fan of my local library and check books out from there regularly. As I’ve said before, I usually have more than one book on my nightstand at a time.

I’m currently obsessed with crime novels and books on Paris – as I’m planning to visit in a few years and it’s always been a place I adore – but I’ve also found that there are many good resources out there for other topics of interest I have – decorating my home, organizing my life, oh and… wine!

You knew I was going to get there eventually. Wink. Wink.

It’s been one of the most fun experiences of my life to give talks on the wineries of Connecticut at local libraries throughout the state. First, I get to talk about wineries, second I get to support small businesses—another passion of mine—and third, well, I get to go to the library! And, when at the library, talking about wineries and vineyards, I realize that people in my audience may have questions about wine itself.

I don’t pretend or give any pretense to knowing a lot about wine. I know what wines I like, but I know that everyone has a varied palate when it comes to wine. I’m not a sommelier, nor am I training to become an expert in wine. But, I think all of us who appreciate a good glass of vino, should have some knowledge on the subject, even if for our own personal benefit.

Therefore, I always recommend some of my favorite wine resources, especially books, when I present to my audiences as The Nutmeg Nose. Here are a few of my favorite resources.

Books

Wine for Normal People - Elizabeth Schneider

Wine Folly - Justin Hammack and Madeline Puckette

Judgment of Paris - George M. Taber

A History of Connecticut Wine - Vineyard in Your Backyard - Eric D Lehman & Amy Nawrocki

Tangled Vines: Greed, Murder, Obsession, and an Arsonist in the Vineyards of California - Frances Dinkelspiel