The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah is a novel that covers two generations of family vintners and their desires for life, love, and wines. Kate is studying for the difficult Master of Wine Examination of which she has failed twice before. Since recently becoming unemployed, she decides to travel to the vineyard estate in Burgundy that has been in her family for generations. While there, she hopes to catch up with her cousin Nico and his wife Heather and continue her studies to strengthen her knowledge of the Burgundian wines as she prepares for the big master test. While cleaning out some abandoned furniture and household items in the cellar with her cousin, she comes across an old armoire tucked in the corner that has a hidden door which leads to a secret room.
Among the items found within the secret room, a long-lost diary written by Helene, a great aunt, is found. As Kate reads through the diary, she learns more about Helene and her family, and questions form about their ties to the wine industry and the aid they provided to those during World War II. A mystery unfolds of valuable wines lost during the Resistance period. Add in a ‘new old love’ who returns to add romance to the mix and the scene are set for the unfolding of the mysterious wines.
This story is filled with nostalgia, mystery, and romance in a beautiful vineyard country setting. A beautiful story that kept my attention throughout as I read, and would recommend reading to anyone. Enjoy!
