I have both this and the 3rd edition, and I would strongly recommend you to have a recent copy in your collection, but not to rush out and buy the new edition every time it appears. The 3rd edition had >1,000 pages and this one >1,600 pages, I suppose the next edition will have >2,000 pages - which ever way you look at it, it's fantastic value for money in terms of /kg. I know that much is said for and against Parker, but the point-rating system and the well-written text makes it an interesting and useful book. I have read some reviews that praise Parker for opening up new wine producing areas, new markets, and new tasting options. Other reviews condemn him for pushing for one type of taste and for inflating prices. I look at what the book gives me. Firstly, I like the descriptions about the countries, producers and wine. Secondly, I like rating systems, his and others, because they can help me decide what to go for next. Thirdly, I use his book to check interesting options that I find in supermarkets (I live in Europe and our supermarkets sometimes have an amazing range of wines on offer) and wine shops. Some people say it is too oriented to the US market, but it nevertheless has provided me with a few good finds, and it often comforts me in buying some lesser known producer or region/grape combination. I will admit that I use Bettane & Desseauve for my French wines, but I tend to use Parker for its coverage of wines from the new world.
