On Tuscany

"The publishers have hit upon a winning formula, with Susan Keevil compiling an informative, eclectic, but always enjoyable, collection of beautifully written pieces from some 30 contributors." — The Sun

"The accumulated effect is thoughtful and intriguing, inspiring readers to open up a Chianti Classico or Brunello and take a trip to Tuscany via wine glasses." — NY Times

"...this enjoyable book compiles articles about the evolution of Tuscan vineyards, with entertaining portraits of innovative winemakers and insightful commentary about the region and the wines by a who’s-who of regional experts, including Burton Anderson, Gerald Asher, Andrew Jefford, Hugh Johnson and Ruth Rogers. " — Toronto Globe

From the melée and muddle of Italy’s vinous past, Tuscany emerged triumphant. The world’s restaurants began to clamor for its Chianti and the Super Tuscan rebel-wines that captured the hearts, palates and pockets of any wine lover who sipped them. It found fame and fortune but had it gone too far…? On Tuscany’s authors unravel the truths of this enchanted vineyard – its tortured landscape of clashing mountains and upended seas, its mysterious Etruscan forebears, the Medici aristocrats and warring tribes who fought to control it. And the stoic peasants, whose thwarted creativity and intuitive ways with wine won through in the end. It tells the story of its king of grapes, Sangiovese, and the courtiers that grapple for its throne, and of the maverick winemakers who harness this region’s passion for wine today, steadying the roller coaster before it once again goes too far and too fast…

Inside, you will discover:

• Chianti Classico’s 11 new terroir zones, the ‘UGA’s, introduced
• How Cabernet Sauvignon changed Tuscany’s fortunes forever
• Tuscany’s colourful native grape characters: Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo, Ansonica and Mammolo
• Hard scrabble to the highest heights: Montalcino’s epic climb to fortune and fame
• The great families of Tuscany and what drove them to success: Antinori, Frescobaldi, Biondi Santi, Incisa della Rochetta
• A–Z of Amazing Tuscans: the artists, authors, philosophers and scientists who made this region great
• D H Lawrence explores the life-affirming world of Tuscany’s Etruscan forebears
• Tuscany’s sweet signature: far from the red-wine race track, David Gleave explores the beauty and diversity of Vin Santo, each grower with their own recipe…
• Olive oil: how Tuscan wine and olives keep pace throughout the year

With contributions from: Jane Anson, Andrew Jefford, Hugh Johnson, Victoria Moore, Jancis Robinson MW, Nicolas Belfrage MW, David Gleave MW, Ruth Rogers, and many more…