WINE. – André L. SIMON. The Noble Grapes and the Great Wines of France. New York et al.: McGraw-Hill Publishing Company Ltd., 1957. First edition, signed by André L. Simon and with a 2pp. a.l.s. loosely inserted, 4to (267 x 189mm.) Numerous colour plates, vineyard maps to rear. (Toning.) Original parchment-backed red cloth (browning to spine). Note: also includes several duplicate photographs of André L. Simon signing this book. The 2pp. letter from Simon expresses gratitude for the hospitality of Peter Herbert and the fine wines they enjoyed for his 81st birthday party. There is also a typed letter from Simon’s wife, again expressing his thanks, but mentioning that the X-Rays have arrived and that André must have an operation. Provenance: Peter Herbert, late owner of Gravetye Manor (bookplate verso the half-title). – And a further three related volumes (including André L. Simon’s ‘In the Twilight’, signed by the author, 1969, 8vo, and John Fothergill’s ‘Confessions of an Innkeeper’, 1938, 8vo) (4).