We also benefited from the wonderful selection of books that were in front of the counter in the shop, which we built from customers’ suggestions and our own explorations. Some were funny, some more historical but we had a strict policy prohibiting anything heavy or depressing. And we always sold out of all the titles. We are convinced that it’s important to have well-written reads while it is dark outside. So here are two favorites, and although the preferences have been well-tested, we won’t be offended if you want to trade!
Looks can be deceiving. Yes, this is a romance about a middle-aged, mid-western American woman (who is a chef) and her rather surprising
In the end, De Blasi’s reflection that “Living as a couple never means that each gets half. You must take turns at giving more than getting.” is perhaps a good analysis for any long-standing relationship.
George M. Taber was the only reporter present at the mythic Paris Tasting of 1976—a blind tasting where a panel of top-notch French judges chose upstart California wines over France’s best. He introduces three eccentric American winemakers and records the tremendous aftershocks of this historic event that changed forever the world of wine. Unfortunately, this marvelous story was muddied up irrevocably in the film Bottle Shock. The only saving grace was Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier, the British wine merchant in Paris who set up the tasting that truly removed fine wine-making as the exclusisve property of France. In the chapters after the tasting, Taber discusses the flowering of the wine industry in other countries, which is fascinating.
Taber’s introduction of all the characters, particularly the improbable vintners from California (a Yugoslavian immigrant, a college professor, and a real estate lawyer) is just spell-binding! One of the esteemed French judges, Raymond Oliver, chef and owner of Le Grand Véfour, sampled a white wine, Taber tells us. “And then he smelled it, then he tasted it and he held it up again, [and] he said, ‘Ah, back to France!’ Except it was a Napa Valley chardonnay. The judge didn’t know that. But I knew.” Once Taber realized what was happening, he thought,”Hey, maybe I’ve got a story here.” Touché.
After owning one of the best cooking stores in the US for 47 years, Nancy Pollard writes a blog about food in all its aspects – recipes, film, books, travel, superior sources and food related issues.
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I simply couldn't help myself after reading your darling description of "1000 Days in Venice". My interest suitably piqued, I ordered my copy, which came to my door on Thursday. I picked it up last night thinking I'd at least start it. What else to do on a rainy Friday? I finished it the same night. I just couldn't put it down. Nancy, it was fabulous! My only regret is I wasn't enjoying a nice glass of wine along with it. What was I thinking! (The wine might have helped sooth the realization of how much Italian I've forgotten!) Oh if my heart could write, THAT is what it would sound like. Alas, I have no such talent. What glorious descriptions! What emotion! I'm starving both for Venice and the delicious cuisine she so vividly, affectionately describes. THANK YOU for such a wonderful recommendation!
I hope you and yours are enjoying a fabulous holiday season.
Hi Wendy,
I tried sending you an email earlier but it got lost in the internet ether.Delighted that you devoured the book in one night! It was such a surprise to me too. Do let me know when you find a food related book that tickles you as much as this one!
Best,
Nancy