Wine & War by Don & Petie Kladstrup 

Have you ever wondered what happens to wine production, stocks of back vintages and wine collections in war times? The destruction of businesses and the suffering of families. Have you ever thought about how cross border import/export business relationships survive can ever resume?

This is a peek into how some of the families of wine fared during WWII throughout France. It follows the intrigues, the horrors, the incredible spirit.

It was one of those books that was hard to put down. I loved the pace. It flowed through the stages of the war and then followed the home comings, the rebuilding and the sometimes slow return to production. It was fascinating to read how Hilter accumulated such a massive cellar under Eagle’s Nest and ploys the French used to hold on to at least some of their treasured wine while offloading some of their worst.

The authors, Don & Petie Kladstrup, have woven the recollections of these families together in such a way that you are captured from the first. It is a must read.  Like a good family saga, a historical drama, a cultural exchange with a smattering of wine education all rolled into one.

It is by no means a new release, but it is well worth a read nonetheless.

Available in hard cover, paperback & e-book. Check with your favourite bookseller.

If you would like another wine book recommendation, have a look at Celebrity Vineyards?

This review was first published 22nd November 2012 and has been updated.