The French word terroir is used to describe all the ecological factors that make a particular type of wine special to the region of its origin. James E. Wilson uses his training as a geologist and his years of research in the wine regions of France to fully examine the concept of terroir. The result combines natural history, social history, and scientific study, making this a unique book that all wine connoisseurs and professionals will want close at hand.
Perhaps the most challenging book on wine that I've attempted to read. Wilson's background as a petroleum geologist means he knows his stuff. The three-star rating is only because I don't know MINE (geology). This book has required multiple readings, in small doses, but is valuable.