The ancient Greek philosophers called them elixirs of the gods. The Roman emperors used them to celebrate their victories. Kings and queens cherished them as they did their riches. And for wine lovers, the fine wines of today are still to be treasured and enjoyed. How and why these wines reach their zenith in color, flavor, and value is the focus of this beautifully illustrated book by wine connoisseur Baudouin Neirynck. Whether you are a wine expert or simply someone who enjoys an occasional glass of wine with your meals, The Grapes of Wine is as mesmerizing as a glass of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon. Beyond the basics of wine appreciation, it offers a unique look at how great wines are made and--perhaps most important--it guides you to the best and most sought-after wines available.

Dr. Baudouin Neirynck was born during the harvest of 1959, a vintage that also produce excellent white Burgundies and Champagne. At the age of fifteen, he stayed with the Croixes, his Burgundian family, and was immersed in the world of wine. He worked in and enjoyed the restaurants and wine trade. After graduating from Lausanne Hotel School, he managed restaurants and bars in hotels throughout France, Switzerland, Germany, Saudi Arabia, and Hong Kong. Dr. Neirynck received his MBA in 1995 and oriceeded to work as an exective recrument consultant from 1995 to 2006. He then returned to the academic world, earning his PhD in 2003 at the University of South Australia. He is also a graduate of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust in the United Kingdom.

Currently, Dr. Neirynck designs and teaches wine courses as Assitant Professor at the Institute For Tourism Studies in Macao, China, while also writing a weekly wine column for the Macau Daily Times. Dr. Neirynck's wine collection is saftly stored in the United Kingdom. Out of sight, out of mind.