From Terrain to Brain: Forays into the Many Sciences of Wine

The book "From Terrain to Brain" explores how the many sciences of wine can enhance our appreciation and enjoyment of wine by presenting wine science as a work-in-progress and emphasizing its interconnectedness with wine culture and tradition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

In her book, "From Terrain to Brain: An Exploration of How the Many Sciences of Wine Can Enhance Our Appreciation and Enjoyment of Wine," Professor Erika Szymanski takes a refreshing approach to wine science, making it accessible to non-experts. Instead of presenting wine science as a comprehensive body of knowledge that enthusiasts should memorize, Szymanski explores how wine science can offer multiple ways of seeing, understanding, and appreciating wine.

Too often, wine science is portrayed as a rigid and unapproachable field, reserved for those who aim to become experts. However, this book challenges that notion by using scientific research to examine wine as a rich cultural phenomenon. By highlighting recent advancements in wine science, "From Terrain to Brain" presents wine science as a work-in-progress rather than a fixed body of knowledge.

Each chapter in the book takes readers on a journey through a specific topic in wine science, such as minerality, climate, microbiome, and yeast. The chapters are organized in a way that progresses from the terrain (geography, terroir, soil) to the cell membrane (microbiology) and then to the brain (the experience of tasting) and finally to the drain (sustainability). Throughout the book, Szymanski emphasizes the interconnectedness of wine science, wine culture, and tradition, placing scientific research in the social and historical context in which it emerged.

By delving into the scientific aspects of wine, Szymanski offers a deeper understanding of the factors that shape wine's taste, aroma, and texture. She sheds light on the geological influences on terroir, the role of microorganisms in fermentation, and the complex chemical reactions that occur during wine aging. Through her engaging writing style, Szymanski makes even the most technical aspects of wine science accessible and engaging, helping readers to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that go into winemaking.

In addition to its scientific value, "From Terrain to Brain" offers insights into the cultural significance of wine. Szymanski explores the historical development of wine culture, the role of wine in different societies and cultures, and the ways in which wine has influenced art, literature, and cuisine. She also discusses the challenges facing the wine industry, such as climate change, sustainability, and the rise of alternative beverages.

Overall, "From Terrain to Brain" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to deepen their appreciation and enjoyment of wine. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice who is curious about the world of wine, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge and insights. By embracing the many sciences of wine, Szymanski helps us to see wine as a multifaceted and complex phenomenon that is worthy of our attention and admiration.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 150 x 218 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197640319