Every Bottle Has a Story

In thirteen short stories, each emulating the style of a different canonical author, John J. Mahoney has elevated wine to the level of character. Just as wine is the touchstone of a meal, his plots lean upon wine as their unifying element. The Pinchon Lalande in the Fitzgeraldian "A Chef Second to None," a Beychevelle in "The Hunting Camp," the Chateau d'Yquem in the Maugham-inspired "Worth the Wait" - each great wine helps propel the tale to its natural conclusion. Full of subtle nods to the masterworks that inspired the collection, lovers of literature and wine will find the blend exquisite. "John J. Mahoney has made a wonderful contribution to wine literature. Every Bottle Has a Story brings together two of my favorites things in the world: words and wine. His writing the short pieces in the style of history's great writers was a stroke of genius. My favorite was the one for F. Scott Fitzgerald, but there were so many good ones that it was hard to select a best. In fact, now that I think of it, maybe the one in the style of James Joyce was my favorite. Then again, maybe it was the one..." - George M. Taber, author of Judgment of Paris and A Toast to Bargain Wines "John Mahoney is a charming storyteller. Each story in this unique book sees wine playing a major role. As a bonus, the stories are written in the styles of different noted authors. Since John Mahoney has taught literature as well as wine, we are not surprised that he delivers." - Harriet Lembeck, author, Grossman's Guide to Wines, Beers and Spirits 6th, 7th and 8th Editions