From its origins in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia to the growing industry in Australia, New Zealand and the USA today, Varriano examines how wine is made, and how it has been used in rituals, revelries and remedies throughout history. And from inebriate or tipsy hedonist to teetotaller and abstinent, he investigates the history of wines transformative effects on body and soul in art, literature and science around the world, from the mosaics of ancient Rome to the poetry of Emily Dickinson and Pablo Neruda and the paintings of Caravaggio, Bosch and Manet. A fascinating exploration of the history of wine, Wine: A Cultural History will delight all those who like a glass of Pinot Noir with their dinner, as well as those who are interested in the rich history of human creativity and consumption.
