Cultivated Life: A Year in a California Vineyard

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Perhaps the best thing is that I am from Sonoma County where most of the events take place. The descriptions of the towns, people and the ever present vineyards really struck home. The obvious joy that the author takes in her life and the wines her family makes permeates the book. She obviously lives a life different from the average person but seems to know it and appreciate all she has. Many local people are mentioned but almost always in a positive and entertaining way. The explanation of grape growing and wine crafting made me feel that even a non-wine drinker like myself could learn to appreciate the difference between good and bad wines.

The book follows a year in a upscale California winery, exposing some of the details of what it's like to go through each step of the wine-making process. It also has a little of the "Lives of the Rich and Famous" to it, as well. A fun light read.