Recommended Reading: Judgment in Paris

Judgment in Paris was written by the sole reporter who actually was present at the watershed 1976 Paris tasting in which California bested France in Cabernet and Chardonnay wine. The author's motivation is to tell the full story and set the record straight, which he does in admirable style. As a credit to the author, knowing the ultimate outcome does not diminish the intrigue and suspense of the storytelling.

The author has done his homework and we are made privy to the multitude of back stories and personalities that came together for that event. As California has moved from success to success in the last several decades, it is important to remember that such was not always the case. In the mid 1970s the vast majority of California winemaking was still jug wine, and the few producers of fine wine struggled to survive.

This small low key tasting event may have done more to bring California into the limelight than anything else. The importance of the event only became clear in hindsight. And for the fans of Cali wine, the reactions of the French judges makes for delicious reading.