Swallow This ~ Second Edition ~ Mark Phillips

I love this guy Mark Phillips… He’s the brains behind WineTasting.org.

His site begins with “Making Wine Fun.” Yes, indeed, he’s got quite the sense of humor. I learned a long, long time ago, make what they have to learn be as much fun (and funny) as possible, and even the most complicated concepts become easy for nearly everybody. And, he also subliminally admits, wine is complicated. Say what you want about it needed to be easy, but even Mark admits to some lotus layers still unfolding. It is what it is… A magical mystery ride.

And when it’s fun and funny… It’s a real relief, for most of us.

I was introduced to his work by Bryan Imelli at Board and Bench Publishing. He asked me to help get the word out on this book, and I said I’d have to read it first, to see I could advocate for it.

Got it, read it, and thought,

Boy, this guy’s got it going on. He’s having a blast as a wine educator, writing books in down time (what’s that?), got a great sense of humor and humanity… Making educational videos on his “Video Wine Course“ on YouTube.  Mark knows who the key players are; and, is both humbled and progressive in his thinking. The message is clear… Everyone has a palate, trust your own above all else, as you are the master or mistress of your own tasting faculties…

Yup, he’s got it going on; and he tells it in such a way that everyone who is starting out learning about wine can appreciate. If you’re in the category of his Progressive Approach, Swallow This is a no-brainer. If you’re a Traditionalist, you’ll also learn a lot about wine, in a more “Wow, hit-me-with-your-best-shot” kinda thinking way.

Has Wine 101 ever been more funny, fun, and accessible for easy learning?

Let’s just say it’s a good time and I learned a few concepts, with over two decades of my own wine teachings, already.

So, here’s the message: Looking for a great read, regardless of who you are, this book is for you. Its speaks to us all.

Well, I can’t help but thinking that. But, only you will know that answer… after you’ve read the book.