Authentic Wine: Toward Natural and Sustainable Winemaking (English edition) By Jamie Goode & Sam Harrop MW

Authentic Wine is a reference book on natural wines, biodynamic wines, and their place in the modern wine industry. Written by Jamie Goode, a renowned wine journalist, and Sam Harrop MW, an expert and winemaker, this book is aimed at anyone interested in the naturalness of wine and its environmental impact.

An analysis of wine authenticity

The book starts with an observation: wine diversity is threatened by industrialized and standardized production. Goode and Harrop explain why some wines have lost their identity and how a return to more natural methods can enhance the authenticity of flavors.

Exploring terroir and natural practices

The concept of terroir is at the heart of the book. The authors decode the role of soil, climate, and viticultural practices in the characterization of a wine. They also discuss the importance of biodynamics, which relies on holistic agricultural principles to promote more environmentally friendly viticulture.

Understanding fermentation and the use of yeasts

One of the fundamental aspects discussed is the use of indigenous yeasts as opposed to commercial yeasts. This section details the impact of yeasts on the aromas and personality of a wine and explains how some winemakers choose to work with wild yeasts to achieve more authentic wines.

The challenges of natural wine

While natural wine is a growing trend, it also poses challenges: managing wine faults, the impact of regulation, and the economic implications for producers. The authors debate these issues and question the use of the term "natural" as a marketing argument.

Ecology and the carbon footprint of wine

The environmental impact of viticulture is another central topic of the book. Goode and Harrop analyze the carbon footprint of wine, from the vineyard to distribution, and propose solutions for more sustainable and responsible viticulture.

An indispensable read

Rich in anecdotes, concrete examples, and scientific analyses, Authentic Wine is an essential read for wine enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone who wants to understand the evolution of natural wine and eco-friendly viticulture.

Product Features

• Title: Authentic Wine: Toward Natural and Sustainable Winemaking

• Authors: Jamie Goode & Sam Harrop MW

• Language: English

• Format: Paperback / softback

• Number of pages: 272

• Illustrations: 55 black and white photos, 3 illustrations, 5 tables

• Publisher: University of California Press

• ISBN: 9780520275751

• Publication date: February 12, 2013

• Weight: 526 g

• Dimensions: 247 x 170 x 20 mm