Читать книгу The Wine Etiquette Guide - Your Defense Against Wine Snobbery - Chuck Blethen - Страница 4

The consumption of wine in the 21^st Century may seem greatly removed from the accidental discovery of fermented grape juice during the Neolithic period. Scholars have shown that wine has always been revered as more than a simple beverage. If there is a hierarchy of drinks, then surely wine is at the top!

Ancient civilizations reserved a special place for wine no doubt due to its initial rarity, effect and safety. Wine drinking was indicative of civilization and refinement. From the earliest days, the consumption of wine was associated with rituals and etiquettes which enhanced the enjoyment of this most complex and variable liquid.

The pleasures of wine are visual, olfactory and gustatory. Chuck Blethen’s guide explains the modern conventions for the enjoyment of the multitude of wine styles available to today’s consumers. In truth, these behaviours are the result of an evolution through thousands of years of experience.

All aspects of wine etiquette have been explained. From the selection of a suitable wine and removal of the stopper through to serving temperature, glass shape and size have been discussed with clarity. Here is a concise yet comprehensive guide to the appreciation of wine.

Wine is consumed in many contexts. The appropriate etiquette may vary according to the situation. Chuck has considered the possibilities. Readers will feel comfortable in any wine setting, from a formal dinner function to a casual wine tasting at a winery.

Chuck has presented his work in an entertaining and encouraging manner. The reader will not only learn much about wine and its interaction with food, but will be stimulated to try more varieties and styles from the wonderful world of wine.

Peter M. Went - BSc(Hons), BAppSc(Wine), DipEd

Lecturer and Winemaker

Hunter Institute of TAFE

New South Wales

Australia