* "The Billionaire's Vinegar: The Mystery of the World's Most Expensive Bottle of Wine."

     Just as there are counterfeit paintings, currency and I.D.s, there is counterfeit wine. Particularly when prices are extremely high, there's a possibility that the wine inside a bottle may not be what it's supposed to be. Benjamin Wallace weaves a fascinating tale of that most basic of human frailties: greed. (Crown Books; $24.95)

     * "Yquem"

     Richard Olney tells the story of the world's most famous dessert wine -- complete with non-sugar-coated tasting notes. (Flammarion Books; $60)

     * "The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It"

     If ever a book's title said it all, this is it. Written by Tilar J. Mazzeo, this is essential reading for anyone who drinks Veuve Clicquot. ($25.95)