Such a wide variety of wines is produced, with so many flavours, and from so many parts of the world, that the newcomer to wine might well be daunted. Pat Simon, on entering the trade in 1948, recognised tasting to be an almost impossible task, and decided just to lift the glass and enjoy its contents. Over the years, however, patterns emerged and the author discovered he could remember more and appreciate deeper. He learnt that wine can strike the drinker in many ways, both physically and mentally - tastes and smells can trigger memories and emotions, while noble vine varieties have a magic ability to draw elements from, and when and how the wine was made. Pat Simon has written this unique book in the hope that it may others to find as much enjoyment in wine as the last half-century has brought him. The book is divided into two parts: Part One encourages the reader to think about tasting, and explores such ideas as balance, finish, aroma and tannin. It guides both new and experienced tasters through the many and various concepts behind wine-tasting. Part Two is a practical guide to developing expertise, including discussions on tasting glasses, keeping records and decanting wine. Illustrated with reminiscences from an earlier age of the wine trade, as well as suggestions for a logical base for wine-tasting will enhance the pleasure derived from wine by every reader.