Making Sense of Wine

By: Matt Kramer

Narrated by: Frederick Davidson

Since its first publication in 1989, Matt Kramer's extraordinarily accessible guide to wine has become a classic. Where others talk jargon about centrifuges, steel tanks, and acidity levels, Kramer talks about wine itself. The result is an enriching experience that goes far beyond knowing how to read a label or impress a waiter.

This audiobook explains everything an oenophile needs to know, including the creation and naming of wines, wine cellars, presentation and glassware, pairing wine with food, and much more.

Kramer reminds us that wine is an expression of the earth that reveals the site and conditions under which it is cultivated. He explores connoisseurship through the practical devices of "thinking wine" and "drinking wine," making for a most enjoyable and engrossing journey through one of life's most dependable pleasures.

©2003 Matt Kramer (P)2003 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Pop a cork, pour a glass and enjoy listening to this book....should fascinate both the novice and the oenophile....Davidson's reading and pronunciation are impeccable." ( AudioFile)
"While much wine writing verges on pedantry, columnist Kramer brings a disciplined reporter's ear to his job, along with wit and intelligence to spare." ( Publishers Weekly)
"[A] perspective that combines common sense with scientific fact....The point of view taken is refreshingly free of dogma." ( Library Journal)

It’s okay not my fav

The book is not as simple and organized as promoted. I didn’t finish the book

Ruined by Narration

A slightly outdated but still informative, ruined by a narrator who sounded like a pretentious nose-holding snob.

Great information spoiled by narration

I tried very hard not to be annoyed by Frederick Davidson's narration. I mean, a stereotypical British accent with the affectation of the upper class should be perfect for a book on wine right? Not to this listener. Early on Matt Kramer writes about this book not being for "snobs" (my interpretation) and yet with every syllable uttered it screamed snobbery. His pronunciation of French wines and foods may be impeccable, but I could scarcely understand any of it. Such a shame too since this book is full of interesting and useful information. In fact I often came off appearing snobbish when making comments about wine which I gleaned from the book. This one is better read than listened to.

Good Slightly Dry Overview

As has been noted by others the performance is a little one note, didn't bother me terribly. The material was a tad dry but seemed to cover the basics. I wish there had been a little more about types of wine and their characteristics. Overall, I'm glad I listened and I'm looking forward to learning more from other sources.

So Sweet

What a great way to spend your leisure! Even the the recipes were fabulous! Will try them all.