Wine: A Cultural History

'[A] beautifully illustrated and detailed study . . . the perfect drinking companion.' - The Guardian

''Packed with interesting anecdotes, it's beautifully illustrated and exhaustively researched, and romps along at a great pace.' - Decanter

This is an amiable tour of wine's history, detailing the profound effect it has had on society and culture through the ages. From its origins in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to the New World wine industry today, John Varriano examines how wine is made, and how it has been used in rituals and revelries throughout history. He investigates wine's transformative effects on body and mind in art, literature and science around the world, from the mosaics of ancient Rome to the poetry of Emily Dickinson and the paintings of Caravaggio, Bosch and Manet. A fascinating, companiable exploration, Wine: A Cultural History will delight all those who favour a glass or two of an evening, as well as those who are interested in the rich history of human creativity and consumption.