The subject of excellent reviews when it was first published in late 2005, this is a serious text that covers the fundamentals of wine appreciation in a clear, straight-forward style, from the essential aspects of viticulture, winemaking, styles of wine, defects and flaws, sensory analysis and grape varietal characteristics, to wine buying, storage and serving. The result of ten years of research by the founder of Sweden's celebrated Malmo Wine Academy. But what makes this book stand out is its innovative 100-point grading system (see comments below). The author also gives a thorough overview of international wine markets, pricing and quality and how these factors affect each other. Unique graphs show the relationship between the wine's score and its price in the US and European markets.

Clive Michelse's profile page

Clive S. Michelsen founded the Malmö Wine Academy in 1995 where he continues to conduct seminars, educational programs, and sales training to industry professionals and private enthusiasts. He is the host of a weekly, live radio program about wine.