Fully revised and updated for its sixth edition, this benchmark book recounts the exciting and turbulent evolution of the sherry region and explores how its history and culture are intertwined with the sherry trade. Julian Jeffs chronicles the changing face of sherry - its viticultural methods, the complex production techniques, the growth of the wine's trade and the region itself - taking us from the area's early Phoenician settlers right up to the present day. The detailed sections on cultivation and production include information on both traditional and the now more commonly used modern methods of viticulture. Manzanilla, the 'wine of joy', receives an entire chapter to itself before Jeffs brings the information on blending and tasting sherry up to date. He also provides extensive details of all the shippers, from the traditional family firms to the new boutique bodegas, along with thorough appendices for those who wish to delve into the fine details. This classic wine book unravels the timeless appeal of one of Spain's greatest wines, making it an essential resource for both sherry enthusiasts and those involved in the world of sherry.