Helen McGinn’s top 5 wine books

Discover Helen McGinn’s favourite wine-related books for beginners and experts alike.

With over a decade of experience sourcing and sampling wines from around the world and the author of award-winning blog ‘The Knackered Mother’s Wine Club’, it’s safe to say Helen McGinn knows a good bottle. So, we asked Helen to put together her favourite books about wine to give you some great inspiration for your next read.

Wine Folly – The Essential Guide to Wine by Madeline Puckette & Juston Hammack

Through beautiful infographics, flowcharts and maps, Wine Folly by Justin Hammack is the perfect introductory book to begin improving your wine knowledge.

[The World Atlas of Wine by Jancis Robinson & Hugh Johnson](The%20World Atlas of Wine by Jancis Robinson & Hugh Johnson)

After its publication in 1971, the first edition of The World Atlas of Wine was recognised by critics as one of the most essential and authoritative wine references available. To this day, this classic wine book equips enthusiasts with all there is to know about the world of wine through slick cartography and key reference material.

How to Drink by Victoria Moore

Organised by season, this book is an uncomplicated guide to enjoying drinks at home. Accompanied by seasonal beverage recipes, this beautiful guide informs its readers on how to entertain and ensure you are never without the perfect drink for every occasion. One of Helen’s favourites due to its approachable nature which is neither garish or intimidating. The perfect gift for any entertainer.

The Oxford Companion to Wine by Jancis Robinson

If you are looking for a book to inspire, The Oxford Companion to Wine has won every major wine book award out there. With over 180 esteemed contributors, Helen recommends this companion for those seeking the ultimate expertise on every wine-related topic imaginable.

Oz Clarke on Wine by Oz Clarke

Oz Clarke has been described as one of the most democratic and accessible wine experts in the world. This book will take you to vineyards around the world, revealing where wine is seeing its best success and recommendations on the world’s favourite organic and biodynamic wines that are leading to a sustainable wine future. A must-have for anyone seeking a literary witty wine tour!

The Knackered Mother’s Wine Guide: Because Life’s too Short to Drink Bad Wine by Helen McGinn

We couldn’t finish this roundup without mentioning Helen’s own fabulously entertaining wine guide. Essential reading for anyone who enjoys a good glass.