The Wine Explorer

Do you want to know the difference between a Gamay and a Malbec, and what pairs best with a roast lamb or seafood pasta? Do you want to impress your friends with a little-known and affordable gem from the Mendoza region? Then this book, by an expert whose family has been in the wine trade since 1879, is for you. Graham Mitchell takes a look behind the label to uncork the mysteries of wine, taking the reader on a tour of vineyards from France, Argentina, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. On this journey of discovery, he explains the varieties and differences of the wines produced, examining the historical and geological factors, and introduces the people who run the vineyards--some of whom are larger-than-life characters. A very personal account of the adventures that befell a wine merchant in pursuit of the finest wines and extraordinary stories from vineyards off the beaten track, this unique book is an intoxicating blend of humor, experience, anecdote, and authority.

Graham Mitchell has been buying and selling wine for 20 years as a professional wine merchant. He travels the world searching for the best wines, those with attitude and soul. A Director of El Vino Company for six years, Graham subsequently set up his own wine business. His passion for wine and wit led to a wine slot on BBC radio for eight years and much lecturing and writing about wine in the press, as well as after-dinner speaking.