Book excerpt: From the expert who promises to avoid winespeak comes an unfussy guide that focuses on American wines and on up-and-coming wineries from around the globe. For novices and afficionados alike, Anthony Dias Blue's Pocket Guide to Wine 2006 will lead you to the best choices -- and values -- without pretense or hyperbole. With a special eye for American wines and those that are unheralded yet not to be missed, Blue makes the process of choosing wine in a store or restaurant simple. He provides: Extensive listings of wineries on six continents, from Mexico to South Africa, from Long Island to Israel, and even from China to India Outstanding and cult wineries -- and wineries to watch Profiles of each region that focus on key characteristics and varieties Ratings, succinct descriptions, and opinions about each producer Updated vintage reports Advice about what to drink now