Bill Smith's introduction to winemaking happened when he worked in California, where he visited wineries in the Napa Valley. Back in England, he became a keen amateur winemaker. Adapting his skills as a research scientist in anaerobic fermentation to winemaking, the author soon became a prize-winner at shows, furthering his interest in the hobby by becoming a National Wine Judge

He wrote this book for winemakers at all levels; all aspects of home winemaking are discussed from the basic equipment to the Wine Clubs that are the backbone of this widespread hobby. It gives the author's own views on methods that will improve on standard winemaking techniques and concludes with a selection of over fifty recipes from him and his winemaking friends.