My first suggestion would be The Wine Atlas by Jancis Robinson and Hugh Johnson. In fact, if you buy only one wine book, this would be it. It is now in its eighth edition and has great maps, photographs and in-depth profiles of every wine-producing region, from Bordeaux to Georgia. It also has concise information on every aspect of wine production, from growing grapes to opening and enjoying your bottle of wine.
These two writers also have individual publications. I would recommend two little handbooks that will fit into your pocket or handbag. Jancis Robinson’s 24-Hour Wine Expert is a short, pared-back look at wine, leaving aside most of the confusing jargon. Hugh Johnson’s Pocket Wine Book 2025 is at the other end of the scale with a large amount of information on producers, regions and wines, all packed into a small pocketbook. Robinson also combines with Julia Harding and Tara Q Thomas to edit the utterly comprehensive Oxford Wine Companion. This is probably more for committed wine lovers and professionals.
If you prefer graphics to written text, Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack is a unique visual guide about wine. Puckette also has a comprehensive website produced in a similar visual style.
My final recommendation is Andrew Jefford’s Wine Course. Jefford is one of the best wine writers around and this is a beautifully written, comprehensive introduction to wine.
Once you have finished these, there are plenty of books that cover specific regions or countries, as well as books covering every aspect of producing and enjoying your bottle of wine.
