Richard Betts, one of fewer than 200 master sommeliers in the world, is no wine snob. Furthermore, he hates wine-speak, and he considers wine to be a “grocery, not a luxury.” (We can relate to that.)
In The Essential Scratch & Sniff Guide to Becoming a Wine Expert, the first book of its kind, Betts is on a mission to help readers become experts on their own. By scratching and sniffing their way through the basic components of wine—fruits, wood and earth—readers get a first-hand, super-sensory wine education. Now anyone can discover the difference between a Syrah and a Sangiovese. How handy will that be when you’re puzzling over which type of wine to order with your meal or serve at your next dinner party?
Sixteen scents are showcased with whimsical illustrations by Wendy MacNaughton, which helps break down a massive amount of information in a fun, interactive format. We’re thinking this is the perfect gift for someone who wants to learn more about wine but might be too shy to ask questions! Order soon for the holidays; one place to start is Amazon.com.
About Richard Betts
“Richard Betts has been featured in the New York Times, Wine Spectator, Food & Wine, Outside, GQ and Details and speaks frequently on wine throughout the country. He is the founder of two wine companies, Betts & Scholl and Scarpetta, that have won top praise from leading wine publications. He is also the founder and president of Sombra Mezcal and Tequila Astral, and his newest wine ventures include Saint Glinglin Bordeaux, My Essential Red and My Essential Rosé” (Amazon.com).
- Images: Co. Design
