Good wine makes me sing | Silvie Reboul

Many historians have recounted the history of viticulture in France. A rich history that began over two thousand years ago and has made our country a major player in the production of quality wine worldwide. Historical writings are based on meticulous research of archives and documents. But as everyone knows, alongside official history, there is the small, anecdotal, and subjective history. Out of a passion for music, Sylvie Reboul chose songs to tell another story of wine. She takes us on an exciting adventure full of surprises that begins in the 7th century BC. Throughout history, music has always been intertwined with wine: it generates it when it sets the rhythm of the harvest or cellar work - wine inspires songs by stimulating creativity. Both are naturally united in life's small and grand events. Singing and drinking to express enthusiasm or anger, to entertain or provoke, to assert oneself or reject, to celebrate a victory or lament a defeat. Over the centuries, winemakers have turned to songs to express the challenges of their craft, monks have been ridiculed, wine has been praised for its therapeutic virtues, or conversely, blamed for all the ills of society. From the first Latin songs to the joyful verses of guinguettes, through the repetitive refrains of the Second Empire, the history of wine appears in a new light, closely related to daily concerns. It is truly remarkable to see how vast, varied, and of high quality the repertoire related to vines and wine is in France. It is often reduced to famous drinking songs! A song is first and foremost a story put into verse and music that conveys feelings and emotions. It speaks to us and conveys messages related to its era. Depending on whether its author is anonymous or known, from the people or the bourgeoisie, it delivers different messages. It is also the best way to quickly disseminate information among populations who cannot read or write. Its flexibility prevents authorities from controlling its effects. Intended to shed a different light on the history of French wine, this book educates, entertains, amuses, surprises, and undoubtedly evokes certain emotions. It is aimed at all wine enthusiasts, the curious, history buffs, singers, musicians, and historians.