Wine is based on ethanol, a potent alcoholic poison and depressant. Yet, when consumed in moderation, its effects are liberating, euphoric and positively beneficial to our physical health. What do we do when we drink too much and feel bad the following morning? Swallow another glass of it to make us feel better!
Bottom’s Up! traces the story of wine: from its humble beginnings in rotting grapes before the Bronze Age to the present when single bottles can change hands thousands, even tens of thousands of pounds. It examines the extraordinary diversity of paintings and artefacts, including drinking vessels, that have been created by history’s greatest artists and craftsmen to enhance the pleasure of wine, and to impress guests.
The talk visits the ancient societies of Egypt, Greece and Rome, travels through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and 18th century Britain. It culminates in the present day, when more wine is being consumed than ever before, with its world market now worth over £100 billion.