Description
Book Synopsis: In a lively gastronomical tour around the world and through the millennia, Uncorking the Past tells the compelling story of humanity's ingenious, intoxicating search for booze. Following a tantalizing trail of archaeological, chemical, artistic, and textual clues, Patrick E. McGovern, the leading authority on ancient alcoholic beverages, brings us up to date on what we now know about the creation and history of alcohol, and the role of alcohol in society across cultures. Along the way, he integrates studies in food and sociology to explore a provocative hypothesis about the integral role that spirits have played in human evolution. We discover, for example, that the cereal staples of the modern world were probably domesticated in agrarian societies for their potential in fermenting large quantities of alcoholic beverages. These include the delectable rice wines of China and Japan, the corn beers of the Americas, and the millet and sorghum drinks of Africa. Humans also learned how to make mead from honey and wine from exotic fruits of all kinds: even from the sweet pulp of the cacao (chocolate) fruit in the New World. The perfect drink, it turns out-whether it be mind-altering, medicinal, a religious symbol, liquid courage, or artistic inspiration-has not only been a profound force in history, but may be fundamental to the human condition itself. This coffee table book will sate the curiosity of any armchair historian interested in the long history of food and wine.
Details
Are you ready to embark on a fascinating journey through the history of alcoholic beverages? Uncorking the Past: The Quest for Wine, Beer, and Other Alcoholic Beverages will take you on a gastronomical tour across the globe and throughout time. Written by the renowned expert Patrick E. McGovern, this captivating book combines archaeology, chemistry, art, and literature to unravel the secrets of humanity's love affair with booze.
From the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia to the vibrant cultures of China and Japan, Uncorking the Past uncovers the origins and development of various alcoholic beverages. Discover the surprising way in which cereal staples like rice, corn, millet, and sorghum were cultivated for the purpose of fermenting these delightful drinks. Delve into the world of mead made from honey and wine made from exotic fruits, including the unexpected use of cacao in the New World.
But this captivating book offers more than just a fascinating historical account. It presents a thought-provoking hypothesis about the integral role that spirits have played in shaping human evolution. With insights from sociology and food studies, McGovern explores the profound influence of alcohol on society throughout different cultures and time periods. This book will leave you pondering the deep connection between humans and the perfect drink.
Whether you are an armchair historian or a wine enthusiast, Uncorking the Past is a must-read. This beautifully illustrated coffee table book will satisfy your curiosity and provide hours of engaging content. Get your copy today and unlock the secrets of our intoxicating past. Discover more about Uncorking the Past now!
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