Description
Book SynopsisTells the compelling story of humanity's ingenious, intoxicating quest for the perfect drink. This title offers information on what we know about how humans created and enjoyed fermented beverages across cultures. It also explores a provocative hypothesis about the integral role such libations have played in human evolution.
Trade Review"McGovern's delving, detailed in this fascinating book, leaves little doubt that humans are born drinkers." New Scientist "(A) magnificent study, skillfully written and well illustrated." Choice "Takes his reader on a world tour, examining the archeological record for alcohol use across continents and cultures." Nature "Highly informative and challenging." California Grapevine "In this engaging book, Patrick McGovern gives us a world tour of the origins of alcoholic beverages." -- John Gava Law Society Journal "A remarkable book, both erudite and entertaining." Gastronomica
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations Preface 1. Homo Imbibens: I Drink, Therefore I Am 2. Along the Banks of the Yellow River 3. The Near Eastern Challenge 4. Following the Silk Road 5. European Bogs, Grogs, Burials, and Binges 6. Sailing the Wine-Dark Mediterranean 7. The Sweet, the Bitter, and the Aromatic in the New World 8. Africa Serves Up Its Meads, Wines, and Beers 9. Alcoholic Beverages: Whence and Whither? Select Bibliography Acknowledgments Index
