The new novel from the bestselling author of Salmon Fishing in the Yemen. ABRIDGED EDITION

Late one summer evening, Wilberforce - rich, young, work-obsessed and self-contained - makes an unexpected detour on the way home from the software company he owns and unwittingly takes the first step on a journey that will change his life. His uncharacteristically impulsive act leads him to the door of Caerlyon Hall, the domain of Francis Black, a place where wine, hospitality and affection flow freely. Through Francis, the eccentric and enigmatic owner of Caerlyon, Wilberforce is initiated into a rich life he could never have imagined, becomes a willing pupil to Francis's master, and in the cellars of Caerlyon he nurtures a new-found passion for fine wine. But even the finest wine can leave a bitter aftertaste, and Wilberforce will learn that the undercroft holds some unpalatable secrets, and that passion comes at a price.

'This story begins at the end with the thirtysomething Wilberforce an alcoholic ... and ends at the beginningm with him on a pinnacle of rosy promise ... the narration makes the whole more gripping than on the page.' Observer 'Paul Torday follows up the light satirical humour of last year's SALMON FISHING with this poignant tale of alcoholism.' FT Magazine 'It is a fable, a lingering, haunting morality tale about addiction, snobbery and a kind of desperate, furious love.' -- Sue Gaisford INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY