Anyone Can Taste Wine: (You Just Need This Book)

Anyone Can Taste Wine is a book that teaches you how to become a world-class wine taster. It reveals in methodical steps how to acquire essential wine-tasting skills, such as recognizing wine scents and developing an attendant wine language. The difficulty that most besets inexperienced tasters is a lack of suitable vocabulary that would enable them to name and describe the flavors and scents that they taste and smell.

Format: Hardback
Length: 365 pages
Publication date: 29 December 2022
Publisher: Carus Books

If you have a passion for wine, this comprehensive book is designed to equip you with the knowledge and self-assurance to excel as a world-class wine taster. Authored by Cees (pronounced 'Case') van Casteren, a renowned scientist, author, and international wine competition judge, this guide takes you on a systematic journey to acquire essential wine-tasting skills. Cees is among the global super-elite, comprising less than 500 top experts worldwide, who have achieved the prestigious title of Master of Wine.

Anyone Can Taste Wine, originally published in Dutch, has quickly become the go-to resource for wine enthusiasts in the Netherlands. In its introductory chapter, the book dispels the notion that tasting abilities are predetermined by genetics. Instead, it asserts that wine tasting is a skill that can be developed by anyone with normally functioning senses of smell and taste. The key lies in rigorous learning and practice.

The book emphasizes the importance of training your senses to enhance your wine-tasting abilities. While there may be genetic differences between individuals in terms of smelling and tasting, these differences do not determine one's aptitude as a taster. Research conducted by taste professor Linda Bartoshuk, previously affiliated with the University of Yale, has shown that a wine taster's ability is primarily influenced by the amount of training they have received. Specifically, exercises focused on recognizing wine scents and developing a corresponding wine language play a pivotal role in developing wine-tasting skills.

One of the challenges faced by inexperienced tasters is the ability to discern subtle flavors and aromas in wine. The book provides valuable tips and techniques to develop this sensory acuity, including practicing mindfulness, observing wine characteristics, and engaging in sensory exercises. It also delves into the art of wine pairing, offering insights into how different wines can complement or contrast with various foods.

Throughout the book, Cees shares his extensive knowledge and expertise, offering practical advice and anecdotes from his years of experience in the wine industry. His writing is engaging and accessible, making it an enjoyable read for both novice and seasoned wine enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in expanding your wine knowledge, attending wine tastings, or pursuing a career in the wine industry, Anyone Can Taste Wine is an invaluable resource that will help you on your journey to becoming a skilled and confident wine taster.

Weight: 1148g
Dimension: 196 x 258 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781637700341