Wine Books Review (2/4)

The Finest Wines of Burgundy by Bill Nanson

Burgundy Report, that independent web you know.
In spite I do find it weak, really appreciated for its articles and that free sincerity.
In this particular case, a foreword by Hugh Johnson does not help so much cause it is coming from a man that does not know Burgundy very well, just Bordeaux, Germany and Australia.
This venerably OBE elderly is taking money everywhere. Amazing.

About this book, Jon Wyand, a professional photographer, is the relucent star.
Every picture reflects a certain part of the personality of those vignerons.

Every winemaker is presented individually, emphasizing the wines that Nanson prefers.
A very few news of each cellar so little boring. About those finest wines, I have to say that they are not more than a tasting notes resume. Incomprehensible choices often.
That final Finest 100 selection is also an absurd, excepting if you are thinking in BR parameters,but for those pics highly recommended.

Wines of Burgundy by Serena Sutcliffe

Serena Sutcliffe MV is a talented writer with an ample knowledge of French wines, mainly Bordeaux and Burgundy. She had not only linked to Sotheby´s Wine Department for many years but a perfect French speaker, facilitating the comprehension of the wines and their authors. Yes, she also is Peppercorn´s wife.

Almost a pocket book, this good guide for beginners has all you need to star this journey to Burgundy. Avoid that Hugh Johnson prologue.
Complete information of the apellations, wine examples, wine makers and understandable maps.
Good source for a first approximation to what is important in this region with a easy A-Z list.

Despite this is an old edition, coming from 2003, the book is clearly on form today.
Really recommended.

The Great Domaines of Burgundy by Remington Norman


Now we are talking.
Remington Norman is not only a well-known Burgundian wine authority but a man whom likes get to the point.
Tecnichal and cellars presentation are impeccable in this book. Pure demostration of total control. No doubts here.
From that foreword by Michel Broadbent, that is style, to the final part with what is happening in Burgundy: Grapes, how they are making wine, tasting and vntages.
Real core is crossing the different domains, understanding the philosophy of every house, taking a detailed view of every wine and discovering some gems. All what aficionado needs.
Maps are great. Photos by Jon Wyand are, again, spectacular.
I have to recognize this is a serious effort and have to read even more but with Norman got more than I can manage.
More than a necessary recommendation.

Grand Cru by Remington Norman

As Aubert de Villaine says in the foreword, this book is "a natural follow up to The Great Domaines of Bugundy and just as essential".
Reading Villaine´s terroir concept is something delicious. Demanding respect for the land. Defending Burgundy wine beyond Pinot Noir.
At this point, Norman presents a vertically Gran Cru and Finest Primer Cru of Burgundy.
There are only 33 Gran Cru, less than 1% of the wineland in the Cote d´Or.
The decription is very effective: General aspects, Origins, Statistics, Principal Owners, Topography and, of course, the Wine.
To be honest, I have found here a direct, clean and friendly explanation of every wine.
Absolutly recommended.