I recently received a promotional copy of the book Educating Peter: How I Taught a Famous Movie Critic the Difference Between Cabernet and Merlot or How Anybody Can Become an (Almost) Instant Wine Expert by Lettie Teague and began reading it this morning. Teague is an editor at Food and Wine magazine and produced a monthly column on wine that is fun and a delight to read. It also has clever illustrations of the author, different each month, that are not reflected on the cover the book. Teague is also the amicable ex-wife (According to her column he has been gracious enough to allow her to leave her wine collection in their home until she finds a new place for storage.) of Alan Richman, food critic for GQ and other publications..

The book is a very approachable tome on all aspects of wine, from the perspective of an expert initiating a novice into the life of a oenophile: tasting, varietals, etc., etc. I found the first several chapters full of information and fun to read. It's a great book for anyone wanting some basic information on enjoying wine, without all of the snotty, elitist bunk. My only complaint is the weight of the paper (I admit I'm a paper snob when it comes to books and magazines.), which is light and seems better suited for a nice paperback edition, rather than the hardcover.

Mangez!