Andrew Jefford’s writing makes your mouth water and your imagination soar. His latest book, Drinking with the Valkyries was published last year by The Academie du vin library. 

I’ve mentioned The Academie before, and like many books from their collection, Drinking with The Valkyries is a compilation of previously published articles, but you’re unlikely to have read anywhere near all of these musings, and you’d be missing out. 

Andrew writes across several publications including Decanter and The World of Fine Wine as well as his books. Back in 2002, his book, ‘The New France’ outlined the beginnings of changes in wine and vines that we now take for granted. 

His knowledge is eclectic, another of his republished books ‘Whisky Island’ covers the whiskies of Islay. His background as a publisher, editor and poet is evident as is another of his passions – tea. His wellness comparison between caffeine and alcohol will reassure many readers. 

Andrew lives in France which also gives him a unique perspective. He shares his vast culture, experience and obvious joy in the product, the people and the places with ease and elegance. 

He reviews Professor Alex Maltman’s book, ‘Vineyards, Rocks and Soils: The Wine Lover’s Guide to Geology’ with its controversial conclusions (for some). It’s close to my heart, who would have thought a professor from Aberystwyth University (where I studied agriculture) would enter the wine debate. 

Drinking With The Valkyries makes you want to visit the vineyards, meet the wine makers, enjoy the views and taste the wines for yourself.  It will have you scurrying to your wine wine cellar to taste as you read. It may also take you back to you bookshelf, as with each piece he opens the doors to a different region and invites you to learn more. 

It may have taken me a while to review this book, but now is the perfect time to buy, the Academie has its May sale on, use MAY20 at checkout to get 20% off all purchases.

To learn more about Bordeaux, you can find Bordeaux Bootcamp here and to cultivate a healthy passion for wine, watch the free Daily Detox webinar here, buy your copy of The Drinking Woman’s Diet  or discover the new online 7 days to a Liver friendly Lifestyle  here.