The definitive compendium for all lovers of red wine, written by bestselling authors Kevin Zraly and the World Wine Guys.

Award-winning authors Kevin Zraly and the World Wine Guys tell the story of red wine, grape by grape, revealing the vast world of the 50 essential varieties and styles--from Agiorgitiko to Zinfandel--that you should know. All your favorites are here: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, and Syrah, covered in fascinating, eye-opening detail. You'll also discover little-known gems, such as Amarone, Baco Noir, Xinomavro, and Zweigelt. The helpful introduction explains how red wine grapes evolved and spread, how red wine is made, and how the winemaking process influences the taste of the final wine. Peppered with engaging facts and figures, each chapter profiles one variety or style, featuring comprehensive at-a-glance information that provides color and tasting notes, what to expect in the glass, suggested food pairings, and recommended wines at a variety of price points from bargain to splurge. In-depth essays offer capsule histories of each grape or style, including their origins, typical characteristics, popularity, and other notable countries that produce them. Winemakers and other industry experts appear in their own words alongside gorgeous photography that brings the regions, vineyards, grapes, and wines to vivid life.