What’s black and white and red all over? Why it’s The Big Red Wine Book of course. And is it going to be a yearly thing? I’m not sure because it does not have a year on the cover but if it is then it’s going to be right up there with the top few Australian wine review books (and I’m thinking Halliday’s Wine Companion and the Penguin Guide here) and a must buy. The layout is excellent and similar to the Penguin guide with a neat little intro above and other necessary info (except alcohol and closure) on the side. It has over 500 reviews that are comprehensive, entertaining, eclectic and carefully considered - here tiny boutique operations jostle alongside mass produced corporate quaffers for place in Mattinson’s big red heart. It’s up to date and packed with previously unpublished reviews. In short, it’s a slick and beautifully executed snapshot of what’s good and red to drink right now. May release. 96 Points Gary Walsh, Winorama
