by Keith Stewart

Godwit

$49.95

Reviewed by John Clarke

“... a masterpiece – the definitive work on the subject”, according to North & South reviewer Warwick Roger. Better than that, it gives some of the credit for the revolution that has given us credible, enjoyable New Zealand wine to the hospo trade, something most writers on wine never acknowledge.

Well written, it reads like a good story filled with all sorts of crooks and inspirational artisans, as well as a fair sprinkling of dodgy politicians, sharp thinkers and flaky scientists. In other words it is New Zealand’s story, from a surprisingly productive period before the turn of the 20th century through the grim temperance years to the revitalisation that licensing restaurants delivered in the 1960s.

A must for every sommelier who needs to know the whole story of New Zealand wine, and for chefs who like a good read.