Wine for Normal People: A Guide for Real People Who Like Wine, but Not the Snobbery That Goes with It by Elizabeth Schneider Narrator: Elizabeth Schneider
Published by Audible Studios on November 5. 2019
Source: Purchased
Genres: Non-fiction
Length: 14 hrs 20 mins
Pages: 352
Format: Audiobook
Purchase at Bookshop.org or Audible
Add on Goodreads
This is a fun but respectful (and very comprehensive) guide to everything you ever wanted to know about wine from the creator and host of the popular podcast Wine for Normal People, described by Imbibe magazine as "a wine podcast for the people." More than 60,000 listeners tune in every month to learn a not-snobby wine vocabulary, how and where to buy wine, how to read a wine label, how to smell, swirl, and taste wine, and so much more! Rich with charts, maps, and lists—and the author's deep knowledge and unpretentious delivery—this vividly illustrated, down-to-earth handbook is a must-have resource for millennials starting to buy, boomers who suddenly have the time and money to hone their appreciation, and anyone seeking a relatable introduction to the world of wine.
Wine for Normal People is such a good book. I enjoy wine — well, some wines — but know very little about it. Wine is complicated, from the color, to the region in which it’s grown, to the correct pairing with food, and the temperature at which it’s served. I tend to stick with what I know I’ll like, but this book has given me a bit of confidence to pick some less safe options.
The book is interesting and conversational. We learn how to taste wine, how it’s made, how both the winemaker and where the grapes are grown affect that taste. We get a quick tour of wines in both the Old World and New World. The author also gives advice on pairing wine and food, not a list to memorize, but characteristics to take into account.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by the author, who also has a podcast by the same name. It felt like a friend was helping you learn about wine without talking down to you or assuming you know more than you do. She gives a vocabulary to use when discussing wines or asking for help at your local shop and suggestion on how to look for a wine you’ll love if you’re on your own.
I actually ended up buying the hard copy of the book too, because it’s one I can see myself referring back to. The audible version comes with a pdf full of charts, comparisons, and maps, but the physical book is even better. It’s well designed and gives plenty of illustrations.
About Elizabeth Schneider
Elizabeth Schneider is a certified sommelier, certified specialist of wine, and the creator of the podcast Wine for Normal People. She lives in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.
Whilst I don’t drink alcohol myself I would quite like to be able to go into a shop and prior to buying a bottle of wine be able to discuss it without seeming like a complete novice and this book sounds perfect for just this.
Maybe – I’m not sure. It might have more information than you’re looking for. On the other hand you can always skim parts or just read the more interesting for you sections.
Ugh I hate wine snobs, I don’t drink it as I’ve never developed a taste for it but I have a friend I think would enjoy this, I’ll recommend the podcast to her too. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
I don’t think I actually know any wine snobs in real life, I’m happy to say. The folks at our local wine shop/wine bar, both the owners and customers, are always nice.
[…] Carol of Carol’s Notebook first listened to Wine for Normal People: A Guide for Real People Who Like Wine, but Not the […]
I like the sound of this pne and added it to my Goodreads list. I drink wine and went on a “journey” with it for a while trying new reds . Now I stick to my favorites but I like to read about wine.
Visiting you from Book’d Out nonfiction post.
I’ve noticed my tastes over the years have changed. I used to love the dark red wines, but now only drink them occasionally.