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Beggars Belief

Stories from Gerald's Bar
4.05 goodreads logo

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( 21 ratings, 6 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Beggars Belief by Max Allen and Gerald Diffey explores the intricate world of vineyards and wine-making, blending historical anecdotes with modern viticulture techniques. This science and nature book delves into the challenges faced by winemakers and the environmental impact of their craft, offering a rich tapestry of insights into the art and science of producing exceptional wines.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're fascinated by the intersection of science and nature with an intriguing narrative that explores unique perspectives and insights. It's perfect for readers who appreciate vivid storytelling and a thoughtful examination of the world around us.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Cyrano de Bergerac said, "I have tried to live my whole life with panache." If I said that, I'd sound like a twat. But you get the drift. I'm off to bone some quails.

Gerald Diffey has spent four decades immersed in the world of food, wine, and hospitality, from his early days waiting tables in old English hotels to establishing two of the best places in the world to drink and eatβ€”the award-winning Gerald's Bar in North Carlton, which Heston Blumenthal described as "a proper, proper old-fashioned sort of bar," and Gerald's Bar in San Sebastian.

Beggars Belief is a collection of funny, poignant, insightful, and just plain ludicrous stories from Gerald's life in kitchens and behind bars. It covers his formative years in the UK, memories of food and family, tales and tips from forty years of service, and journeys and meals that span people and placesβ€”from lunch on the side of a volcano in Sicily to dinner on a beach in East Timor. The book is filled with stories, recipes, and drink suggestions from North Carlton and San Sebastian, as well as vignettes, slices of life, and observations.

In the introduction, Gerald writes, "Romance, that's what I sell. Sensual pleasures. Sights, sounds, smells, touch, taste."

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

A unique blend of science and nature with the atmosphere of a fine bar, Beggars Belief is celebrated for its old-fashioned charm amidst modern trends. Gerald Diffey is lauded for his exceptional eye for detail, reminiscent of a great restaurateur's craft.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781925556728

Publisher: Melbourne Books

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 01 December 2021

Country: Australia

Imprint: Melbourne Books

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 141.0mm

Height: 217.0mm

Weight: 465g

Pages: 200

About the Author

Max Allen has been writing about wine - and drinking at Gerald's bars and restaurants - for almost 30 years. Max is the wine and drinks columnist for the Australian Financial Review, Australian correspondent for JancisRobinson.com, and two-time winner of the prestigious Andre Simon Memorial Award- in 1998 with his first book, Red and White, Wine Made Simple, and again in 2020 for his latest book, Intoxicating, Ten drinks that shaped Australia. In 2011 The Future Makers- Australian Wines for the 21st Century was named Best International Wine Book at the Louis Roederer Wine Writers Awards; in 2013 Max was awarded a State Library of Victoria Creative Fellowship; in 2016, he was inducted as a Legend of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival; in 2018, he was named Wine Communicator of the Year. Max is currently an honorary fellow in history and teaches wine studies at the University of Melbourne.

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