"The Winemaker's Dance embarks on an exploration of "terroir" in one of the greatest places on earth to grow wine - California's Napa Valley. Jonathan Swinchatt and David G. Howell weave a tale that begins millions of years ago with the clash of continental plates that created the Napa Valley and go on to show how this small region, with its myriad microclimates, complex geologic history, and dedicated winemakers, came to produce world-class wines. The Winemaker's Dance will help wine enthusiasts better understand wine talk and wine writing, and most importantly, wine itself." "The Winemaker's Dance is animated by the voices of Napa's winemaker's talking about their craft. The book also contains two driving tours through the valley that highlight the landscapes and wineries discussed. An array of illustrations - including shaded relief maps overlaid with color aerial photographs - provides a look at the region: its bedrock, sediments, soils, sun, wind, and rain. The narrative considers how these elements influence wines from particular vineyards and how specific winemaking practices can bring out or mask aspects of terroir. It concludes with a discussion of the state of the winemaking industry today."--BOOK JACKET.