A fascinating exploration of the inside world of sommeliers sharing their unique perspectives extensive expertise and best stories. Rajat Parr s profound knowledge of wines deep relationships with producers and renowned tasting abilities have made him a legend in the business. As wine director for the Mina Group Parr presides over the lists at some of the country s top restaurants. In Secrets of the Sommeliers Parr and journalist Jordan Mackay present a fascinating portrait of the world s top wine professionals and their trade. The authors interviewed the elite of the sommelier community and their colleagues insights recommendations and entertaining stories are woven throughout along with Parr s own takes on his profession and favorite winemakers and wines. Along the way the authors give an immersion course in tasting and serving wine; share strategies for securing hard-to-find bottles at a good price and identifying value sweetspots among the many regions; and teach readers how to make inspired food pairings. Winner - 2011 James Beard Cookbook Award - Beverage Category Author: Rajat Parr Jordan MacKay Publisher: Ten Speed Press Published: 10/19/2010 Pages: 240 Binding Type: Hardcover Weight: 1.81lbs Size: 9.26h x 7.66w x 1.06d ISBN: 9781580082983 Award: James Beard Foundation Book Awards - Winner About the Author RAJAT PARR is the wine director of the 17-restaurant Mina Group which includes properties in Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami and Washington DC. His program at the flagship restaurant in San Francisco holds a Wine Spectator Grand Award. JORDAN MACKAY is the wine-and-spirits editor of 7x7 magazine and the author of Passion for Pinot. He is a regular contributor to the New York Times and has written for Food & Wine Gourmet and Decanter.