A fascinating all-color and graphically-pleasing hardcover book that acts as a fascinating introductory manual to the complex world of wine. It breaks down wines by various types and then by major wine-producing regions of the world. The descriptions of flavors are incredibly evocative. There is a great deal of advice on pairings as well. This is a book that will not only be handy for me as a writer, but as a cook as I explore more wines. ( )