Secrets of the Sommeliers

Rajat Parr's profound knowledge of wines, deep relationships with the top producers around the world, and renowned tasting abilities have earned him the status in the business as a sort of wine oracle. Director of the wine program for the Mina Group, Parr presides over the lists at 17 of the country's top restaurants, the flagship of which, Michael Mina in San Francisco, holds the Wine Spectator's coveted Grand Award. In Secrets of the Sommeliers, Parr and wine journalist Jordan Mackay present a fascinating portrait of the world's top wine professionals and their trade. Parr and Mackay interviewed the elite of the sommelier community, and their colleagues' insights, recommendations, and entertaining (and envy-inducing) stories are woven throughout, along with Parr's own takes on his profession and the top producers and their wares. Along the way, the authors give an immersion course in tasting and serving wine like an expert; share strategies for securing hard-to-find bottles at a good price and identifying value sweetspots among the top regions; and teach readers how to make inspired food pairings. Photojournalist Ed Anderson's stunning work captures the gritty faces and storied places behind the world's best wines and the sommeliers who champion them.