I need help with general knowledge...

[Doug Holdsworth]

I would like any information I can get about how wines are made and what makes the different techniques change the taste of a wine. I recently started a job in fine dining as a server assistant, I want to better round myself on the job. Any information would be great. Thanks. Douglas

[Thomas]

Your best bet is to get some books. Start with Amerine's WINE and Wagner's GRAPES INTO WINE.

[Jerry D Mead]

A more readable basic book, with lots of good wine recommendations, Connoisseurs' Handbook to California Wine. The cover price is $20 and should be available at any good book store. If you can't find it locally call (800)845-9463...The Wine Trader Book Services sell it.

JDM

[Zinner]

A good book for basic knowledge is Wine by Style by Fiona Beckett(Mitchell Beazley-publisher). It takes you through grape varietals, winemaking and many things that influence the flavor and how we perceive the wine.
It covers a lot of the basics with tips for serving and storing wine and how wine and food pair up.
Take a look--I'm sure your local bookstore can get you a copy--and I'm going to bet you'll like it.

[Karena Shannon]

Another book that I've found very informative, regardless of the degree of your enthusiasm, is, "Wine for Dummies." Part of the 'Dummies' series of books, this may be easier to find at Barnes & Noble or where you do your shopping, than some of the previous books mentioned.

That said, the only way to really understand how the different methods of grapegrowing and winemaking result in different wines is to taste, and taste widely. The books are an aid to that end, but they can't substitute for it, IMHO...

[Tabby]

"Jancis Robinson's Wine Course" is another cover-all book, packed full of info. It was my introduction to wine, and really kick-started my enthusiasm. Highly recommended.

[n144mann]

Welcome to the newcomers, and hello Karena...long time no see!! I have to agree with Karena here....the information is wonderful, I have done my share of reading and still do quite honestly.....but tasting as much as you are able is what helps the most, and frankly, it is a heck of a lot more fun!!
Nancy

[Tabby]

HEAR HEAR!! [img]http://www.wines.com/ubb/biggrin.gif[/img] *Hic!*