Review by Library Journal Review
Not just oenophiles will appreciate these handsome, basic guides for two of the world's major wine producers: California and Spain. Just over pocket-sized, hefty, with quality paper, both books (from Interlink's "Traveller's Wine Guides" series) display nearly identical formats. They offer an abundance of color photographs, illustrations, and maps that add to the attractiveness of their destinations. While the authors eschew public transportation in favor of the private auto for wine touring, their maps lack sufficient detail for point-to-point driving. Whether promoting a winery in California or a bodega in Spain, travel writer Holmes (Frommer's 25 Great Drives in California) and wine writer Heckle, who updated the text of the late Desmond Begg (The Vodka Companion: A Connoisseur's Guide), infuse their information with first-person knowledge and enthusiasm. Each wine-producing region covered includes additional listings for dining, sightseeing, special attractions, accommodations, and wine-related events. Holmes covers California wine regions from the wildly popular Napa-Sonoma area to the little-known Central Valley towns of Lodi, Clarksburg, and Madera. In Spain, Heckle shares the historical delights of Andalusia's "Sherry Triangle" and Aragon's famous vineyards of Rioja within the nine regions he explores. Verdict Wine tasting at the source has become a major attraction for many travelers, and both books provide an excellent series of itineraries for trip planners looking for a themed tour.-Janet N. Ross, formerly with Washoe Cty. Lib. Syst., Sparks, NV (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.