Book Signing and a Holiday Fair at Rockridge Market Hall
Book Signing, Conversation, and Tasting with Catherine Fallis,
author of Ten Grapes to Know: The Ten & Done Wine Guide
Saturday December 7, 2–4pm
Paul Marcus Wines, Rockridge Market Hall
5655 College Ave, Oakland
Want to boost your wine savvy? As part of the Rockridge Market Hall Holiday Fair, Paul Marcus Wines welcomes Master Sommelier and wine educator Catherine Fallis. Come celebrate her newest book, 10 Grapes to Know, which covers the basics of tasting, buying, and pairing wine. Info: here
The holiday fair at Market Hall also features live music and samplings of seasonal specialties from 2 to 4pm. Festivities are part of the Rockridge District Association’s Holiday Event, which runs from noon to 4pm. Taste mulled apple cider, panettone, Esprit de Noël Tea by Mariage Frères, and raclette melted over potatoes. Baconer samples a range of their artisan bacon products, and Purely offers drinking vinegars. Info: here and in this holiday guide
Kristina’s Bookshelf
Ten Grapes to Know: The Ten & Done Wine Guide
By Catherine Fallis
(Countryman Press, 2018)
Americans love their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Anyone looking to expand their wine horizons would do well to pick up a copy of this basic primer by San Francisco–based sommelier and wine consultant Catherine Fallis.
Fallis has mined her decades of experience to create a simple, very readable, engaging guide to understanding wine. The book is organized by ten different grape varieties: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Syrah/Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel. For each of the different grapes, Fallis includes an overview, history, pairing suggestions, glassware recommendations, and specific brands to buy at various price points.
The book also includes exercises for developing your palate and distinguishing between wines, tricks for remembering the difference between the côtes of Burgundy, tips for talking to sommeliers, and other useful information. For example, when the sommelier hands you the cork: You don’t need to smell it. It’s fine to take it and set it aside. The handing off is just part of the tradition of a formal wine service.
In an easy, conversational style, Fallis covers all the basics of tasting, buying, and pairing wine. Color illustrations throughout. A perfect hostess gift or holiday gift for anyone who enjoys wine.
Edible East Bay’s book editor Kristina Sepetys is eager to share her ideas and book recommendations with our readers.
