Eric Asimov, chief wine critic of the New York Times, believes great wine is "a true expression of a terroir... [with] a story to tell about where it came from, both geologically and culturally, and about the people who shepherded the transformation of grapes to wine and that year in history." How to Love Wine follows this same spirit, exploring the influence of Asimov's own "terroirs"--New York City, Paris, Chicago and Austin--on his passion for food and wine on the path to his perfect job.
Before beginning the autobiographical aspects of his memoir, Asimov first explores the subject of "wine anxiety," hoping to replace this fear with a sense of ease and joy. But even when he's talking about his own story, he includes frequent detours covering why he believes this is the Golden Age of Wine Drinking, and why blind tastings, tasting notes, shelf talkers and scores undermine an experience that should be purely pleasurable.
Asimov describes his memoir as "a gathering of impressions through experience," yet provides so much more, imparting confidence to freshman oenophiles through a concrete plan for learning to love wine. Just as the best wines reflect their roots yet resonate with the drinker, the best memoirs rise above one person's experiences. How to Love Wine not only fulfills its titular promise, but is an engaging peek into a world so many already love. --Kristen Galles from Book Club Classics