Understanding Wine Technology: The Science of Wine Explained

by David Bird

Any student who has ever logged credits in a viticulture and enology class knows David Bird’s book: it is the most widely assigned wine science primer in the English-speaking world. This completely revised and updated edition to Bird’s classic textbook deciphers all the new scientific advances from the last several years, and conveys them in his typically clear and plainspoken style that renders even the densest subject matter freshman friendly. The new material includes an expanded section on the production of red, rose, white, sweet, sparkling, and fortified wines; information on histamine, flash detente, maceration, and whole bunch and whole berry fermentation; an expanded chapter on wine faults, including Brettanomyces; a new section on HACCP analysis as applied to a winery; and much more.

Genres: Wine, Nonfiction

328 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2001

Reviews

[Evan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really clear headed approach to a subject that is enormously confusing. The chapters read well, though it is in most aspects a text book. Something to reach for when you have a question about the various machines and processes that it takes to make wine on a commercial scale. David Bird managed to make some of the more dry subject matter easier to understand.

[Arpi Shahin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brief and simple yet essential explanations and clues for picturing on what is going on in the wine world technologically. A favorite book and helping one to refer whenever need to clarify some doubts. Enjoyed reading and will definitely re-read.

[Alex Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not all of the book is good but there are portions he explains well enough to make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone looking to learn about vilification.

[Matt Lennert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wine 101.

[Colleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 13 of my #2018readingchallenge is a TEXTBOOK! and I'm counting it because it was work to finish it (and probably the only textbook I've read cover to cover). It's David Bird's Understanding Wine Technology (The Science of Wine Explained), 3rd edition. We read it for Wine 101 (intro to oenology) at the Wine Institute in South Seattle College.

Thorough, insightful, and totally understandable for the layman, this book is pretty much revered in the industry (winemakers not sommeliers). Excellent read if you want to know about the chemistry and microbiology of wine. Not very entertaining, though (haha).

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A definite 5 star rating for bringing quirkiness to a subject matter which could so easily fall into a dry and boring rut. Bird covers every aspect of wine-making in a manner that is easy to read and actually fun at times. This will be a much revisited reference in my office. And by the way- read the bio on this guy. He's kind of a badass.

[Tara Brabazon · Rating 3 out of 5]

David Bird's book provides a clear presentation of the wine making processes. The necessity for standardization and standards - while also recognizing the plurality of wines - is demonstrated throughout this text.

This is a book that balances the art and craft of wine with the science of winemaking. This is strongly recommended. It is succinct and precise.

[Blecy Ong · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author is extraordinarily knowledgeable, the book is incredibly well written and remarkably well organized, and it had been a wonderful selection for somebody who desires to figure on the way to acknowledge a decent wine. These easy and good tips can assist you discover your surface and launch your long and attractive journey to understanding wine.

[Joelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lot of information here. I know I'll be revisiting for reference...

[Rob Durante · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good overview winemaking processes. I read it on the way to Sonoma for a wine tasting trip.

[Gaby Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to read and understand. Must like chemistry.
Read again for studying purposes. Enjoyed it better the second time

[Frank Delsing · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent primer on the subject of winemaking. Well suited to the WSET Diploma course.