Reviews for Wines and Wineries of California's Central Coast: A Complete Guide from Monterey to Santa Barbara

The average rating for Wines and Wineries of California's Central Coast: A Complete Guide from Monterey to Santa Barbara based on 2 reviews is 4.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2014-05-22 00:00:00 Jennifer E Combs This is a beautiful book! It contains quite a bit of information regarding varietals, wine tastings and pairings. I bought it because it contained some pictures of the Niebaum-Coppola Winery that my sister and I visited years ago. (It is now closed and Coppola established his own winery.) We splurged on the tour/tasting/luncheon combo and had a wonderful time. Got to see some of Coppola's Oscars and the actual desk from the movie, the Godfather! Also, had a delicious lunch and wine tasting in a special dining room. Great memories!

Review # 2 was written on 2016-02-21 00:00:00 Lester Zimmerman, Jr Boy, did I need this book! There is no place that I feel more stupid than standing in the wine aisle trying to pick out a bottle of wine. I've even been wine tasting in the Napa Valley, but that was with a bunch of friends and I was more interested in partying than paying attention to all that talk about varietals and blends and notes. This book has all the nuts and bolts you need to build a good base of knowledge about California wine. It methodically takes you through each of the Big Six: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. Included in each section is a primer on what that variety usually tastes like, where the grapes are usually grown for that type, and advice on what to expect in a good tasting bottle. Handy lists at the end of each section give recommended brands for various price ranges. Later sections cover less well-known wine varieties, sparkling wines, and dessert wines. There is also advice about planning a wine-tasting vacation, getting around in the Napa and Sonoma valleys, and how to look like you know what you're doing at a wine tasting. A handy perforated cheat sheet is in the front for taking along to the wine aisle so you don't freeze up and buy the bottle with the prettiest label or the coolest name. :) I found myself wishing that they provided a website where you could get those recommended brand lists for uploading to your iPhone. I might just type them up myself so I have them on hand for my next trip to buy wine.