Here are Decanter's picks for the best wine and spirits books of 2023.
1.the new french wine – redefining the world’s greatest wine culture
Author: Jon Bonne
Jon Bonne's nine-year study of the profound transformation of French wine has resulted in a comprehensive and insightful two-volume work. The work is a personal, assertive account of the major changes – cultural, historical, and socio-economic – that have changed the way the French produce and drink wine. This is a truly fascinating, thought-provoking read, and it raises profound questions about how France (and Europe) positions itself in the world today – as a leading wine-producing nation and other countries.
2. the complete bordeaux vintage guide: 150 years from 1870 to 2020
By Neal Martin
Neil Martin doesn't just list the growing conditions and regional differences, he takes the reader on a journey back in time. Each vintage is placed in a historical, cultural, social and economic context, which makes this book more than just a true Bordeaux reference (and it is). As amusing as it is, Martin's tone and approach are equally informative and well-informed, easily connecting the spiritual and the learned.
3.how to drink australian – an essential modern wine book
by Jane Lopes and Jonathan Ross
Born in the United States, Lopez and Ross developed a love for the diversity and exciting evolution of Australian wines. Now back in the United States, they have worked hard to produce this wonderful book that captures the complexities, stories, and many nuances of one of the world's foremost wine-producing countries. Technical, historical and geographic information with profiles of major producers.
4.vintage crime: a short history of wine fraud
Author: Rebecca Gibb MW
A direct, humorous and insightful overview of the many ways in which wine has been adulterated, "improved" and counterfeited since its existence. Gibb asks interesting and timely questions about the nature of wine itself, the complexity of the industry, and the concepts of negligence, fraud, and authenticity. Gibb does this in an approachable, engaging way that only makes the book more relevant.
5.the essential tequila & mezcal companion: how to select, collect & s**or ag**e spirits
By Tesss Rose Lampert
Tequila has been "popular" for the past decade, evolving from a niche quirky choice to a cool geeky theme. This comprehensive title captures this newfound status with near-encyclopedic thoroughness. It includes 300 tasting notes and producer profiles, food pairing recommendations, cocktail recipes, and an overview of production methods, history, and names. The quality of ** helps to transport the reader to the landscapes and myths of agave for a complete, immersive experience.
6.signature cocktails
Author: Amanda Shuster
The striking yet systematic design, in true Phaidon style, adds to the appeal of this 200 classic cocktail recipes. Brooklyn-based beverage writer Amanda Shuster provides historical and cultural background, outlining the origins and evolution of cocktails, and mentioning the venues and bartenders behind each blend. A beautiful, well-researched, approachable work.
7.the essential new york times book of cocktails
By Steve Reddicliffe
This "Upgrade and Expand" reissue of The New York Times' iconic reference book was released in late 2022 and therefore missed last year's roundup. It is almost mandatory to correct its absence by including it in the must-have title for 2023. Edited by Steve Reddicliffe and with contributions from Eric Asimov, Mark Bittman, and Amanda Hesser, among others, this book deserves the attention of all foodies and cocktail lovers alike. 624 pages, 31 chapters, pure and complex New York Happy Hour.
8.perfect. three cherries
Author: Adam Handling
This book brings a modern British flair to the world of cocktail publishing. The chef of the Scottish-born Michelin-starred restaurant Frog by Adam Handling compiled recipes based on a six-year-old menu with the help of his mixology team at his EVE bar in central London downstairs at ***frog. The recipes created by Handling &Co reflect his signature focus on British produce and sustainability, with each cocktail available in three variations: classic, modern and zero waste.