Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book 2008: 31st Edition
by Hugh Johnson
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Book Reviews of Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book 2008: 31st Edition
Book Review: The wine guide for oenophiles.
Summary: 5 Stars
When in doubt, rely upon a trusted Grape Geek. Preeminent British wine columnist and oenophile, Hugh Johnson wrote the book on wine, literally. In his memoir, A Life Uncorked, he spills the truth about his envious 40-year journey with wine-bubbly, reds, and whites. In The World Atlas of Wine: Completely Revised and Updated, Sixth Edition and Hugh Johnson's Story of Wine he further demonstrates his impressive wine knowledge. His 2008 Pocket Wine Book is the practical result of Johnson's enormous experience and wine knowledge, and will assist wine amateurs (like me) in choosing the best wines in an often complex wine market. With over 6,000 wines, growers, and regions, along with updated vintage information, recommendations (including budget options), and star ratings, this is the guide I most often rely upon in making my wine purchases. Highly recommended.
G. Merritt
Book Review: Continues to be very good, although has some flaws
Summary: 4 Stars
I have been using this annual guide for many years and I continue to find it extremely useful. Johnson's approach is much more in-depth and informative than the various single-number raters. Compared to previous editions, however, I note two deficiencies in the 2008 edition:
* There is much less vintage information on many individual wine entries. (I refer to the vintage data in the individual listings, not the regional vintage summary table.) Past editions gave much greater history of which vintages were still recommended, ready, or at peak with unmentioned vintages being unrecommended. This edition in many instances lists only a few vintages. This important insight is no longer included.
* Johnson's publisher should pay attention to ensuring clear visual contrast. A different color is used to denote a vintage "at peak" from a vintage that is "just ready". The two colors are too close together and it can be difficult to discern which vintages are at peak.
While the guide is still extremely valuable and a truly comprehensive resource, these factors step it down a notch in my opinion.
Book Review: Bordeaux good and Burg poor
Summary: 3 Stars
Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book 2008: 31st Edition (Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book) This book is a bonus for the traveller who wants an excellent reference guide on the go. The international wineries are well covered. As an Australian who has travelled I am generally impressed. I am quite disappointed in the coverage of Pinot Noir, especially since Bordeaux and its Cabernet gets heaps of space and I noticed Burgundy with its sublime Pinot gets lumped under general heading of France.Book Review: Thank God for Pockets
Summary: 5 Stars
Wow, what a great little wine guide. Has saved my pallet many times over the past couple of months by steering me towards much better wines. Fun, easy and quick to use. I use it at the wine shop, the grocery store and online. An easy way to meet people in the wine aisle! You may leave the store with more than a bottle of wine and a wedge of cheese!! Cheers!!!Book Review: Excellent reference book
Summary: 5 Stars
My husband has collected many books on wine. I first bought this book for him many years ago when his interest in wine became serious. Today, this is still the first book he picks up when he wants to know about a particular vintage and how it is rated. It gives just a short synopsis however it is very helpful when you're trying to decide what to buy.