Introduction to Wine Tasting, Vol. 1

Having just watched Alexander Payne's lovely Oscar-winning film Sideways--chronicling a road trip through the vineyards of California (as well as the bumpy side streets of middle-age hopes, dreams, and failures)--I couldn't help but appreciate the hilarious digs at the pretentiousness of serious wine connoisseurs…or dedicated winos, such as myself. Bob Betz, who holds the rare distinction of Master of Wine, is the amiable host in this first volume of a purported series about the wonderful world of wine. I'll have to discuss this further with my editor (and believe me, I will), but this wine-tasting program was supposed to be part of a kit--including four bottles of wine: a Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and a Cabernet Sauvignon--which Betz and viewers were supposed to sample together, but like those kids whose parents went to France on vacation (and all they got was the stupid T-shirt), the only piece that made it to my desk was the DVD. Of course, Betz mentions that unfortunates (like me) can substitute bottles, as long as the specific varietal wine is the same but, sans vino--I had to simply observe, listen, and lick my lips while Betz talked wine-porn for over an hour, describing--in graphic detail--the full-bodied harmony, balance, and aroma of each wine. Sour grapes aside, I have to admit that viewers will also learn how to serve wine and identify its character using all four applicable senses, as well as how to perform the perfect swivel, sniff, sip, and slurp moves. Betz also covers the winemaking process from stem to glass, the importance of labels, and how to order wine in a restaurant (as well as matching wine with food). In short, this nicely-produced, informative program boasting an unassuming little price tag (especially without the wine) is highly recommended. Aud: P. (N. Plympton)