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A companionable guide to the geology and soil ("terroir") of the best vineyards in France. There exist only a handful of technical books about the"terroir"of France, and experts tell us there is always room for one moreespecially if it is written in accessible prose. Charles Frankel is a geologist, adventurer, and science writer who has published books about geology, history of the earth (dinosaurs!), and outer space. Here, he deciphers the influence of the land on the aroma and quality of wines. Although the grape variety, climate, and skill of the winemaker are essential components, Frankel ably demonstrates how the geology also has a notable influence on the vineyard, the flavors and qualities of wine. The book takes us on a journey to experience the land of France, to admire the landscape, tracing the ancient history of its soil and subsoil, meeting the proprietors of vineyards, and enjoying some of the best wines along the way. The journey begins 445 million years ago and traces the development of the area that is now continental France up to the present day. We come to understand why the Beaujolais region produces its distinctive flavors and aromas (thanks to preponderances of manganese, sodium, and certain rotten rocks ). We tour Alsace and Touraine, Provence and Languedoc, Champagne, Bordeaux, the Rhone Valley, and other areas. Frankel proves an able and interesting tour guide. He also provides maps, detailed compositional tables of specific vintages, technical drawings of regional geologies, a glossary of terms, and an index of useful websites."
Info autore
Charles Frankel is a science writer and lecturer specializing in geology and planetary exploration. His many books include
Volcanoes and Wine: From Pompeii to Napa, also published by the University of Chicago Press.
Riassunto
For centuries, France has been the world's greatest wine-producing country. This book takes readers on a tour of the French winemaking regions to illustrate how the soil, underlying bedrock, relief, and microclimate shape the personality of a wine. It is suitable for both the uninitiated wine drinker and the informed gourmand.
