The complete encyclopedia of wine, beer and spirits

THE COMPLETE ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WINE, BEER AND SPIRITS is the ideal book for anyone who is serious about discovering more about fine drinks from all over the world. It is divided into three separate sections, each of which gives a comprehensive guide to its category. Each section follows a similar style: a brief history of the drink is followed by a detailed description of how it is produced, with local variations explained, and a complete worldwide guide to the countries and regions where it is found. WINEThe first section pays homage to the grape in all its alcoholic forms: still, sparkling and fortified

dry, medium and sweet

red, rosé and white

for celebration, table or benediction

before, with or after a meal. BEERThis section is dedicated to the hop, whose versatility is boundless. It is the base of ale, bitter, lager, mild and porter: beer's range is as great as that of wine. SPIRITSIf it is distilled it is covered here, whether it is based on barley, rye or fruit. Spirits range from anise to whisky, and include the most popular liqueurs as well as rare malts. COCKTAILSThere are recipes for dozens of cocktails here, plus the histories of the most classic ones. Featuring . A guide to the essentials of each drink from absinthe to Zinfandel. descriptions of local varieties and the manufacturers' main brands. Illustrated with 200 photographs