A nonfiction bestseller

The author’s first question is: Nature or Nurture? Pitte believes neither soil nor theories of micro-climate can explain the astounding and sustained success of these areas. He instead illuminates how through centuries of cultivation—the attentions of monks, the protections of dukes, and the devotion of growers—the naturally favorable vineyards of Burgundy and Bordeaux were brought to yield their utmost harvests.

Pitte also delves into the cultural and economic history of a rivalry long dividing wine lovers. Differences between the areas’ societies greatly influenced the techniques adopted and thereby the traits that typically characterize their wines: the round and powerful Burgundy, the bourgeois and refined Bordeaux.

Pitte’s lively style includes quotes from poems, literature, and popular song, never losing sight either of his argument or of entertaining the reader. His story is one of pedologists, agronomists, biologists, oenologists, sommeliers, peasants, merchants, consumers, and wine lovers alike. This well-researched but readable history will please both layman and enthusiast.