From Vines to Wines

Starred review from March 1, 2015

Now in its fifth edition, this work continues to be an indispensable resource for anyone interested in small-scale winemaking in North America. Equally divided between descriptions of growing grapes and making wine, the book is packed with details, strategies, and tips. Growing information includes site selection and preparation, choosing grape varieties, planting, training, pest control, and harvesting. Among the making-related topics are grape processing, sanitation, preparing containers, fermentation, racking, bottling, storing, and serving. The multiple appendixes offer sources for wine equipment and information, supplies, and grapevines, as well as information on grape pests and diseases. There are also many useful tables: e.g., recommendations for wine grapes by region, pruning guidelines, soil types, and trellising options. Updates to this edition consist of new techniques and varieties for growers in colder regions. Note that this book does not cover wines made from fruits other than grapes. With clear prose that is frequently entertaining, Cox (The Essential Book of Fermentation) makes wine making look easy, but he's up front about the amount of work involved. VERDICT A must-have for anyone interested in making their own wine.--Devon Thomas, Chelsea, MI

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