The Taste of Intoxication in Martinique (French Edition): The Wine of the Elites, the Elite of Wines 1880-1910 by Louis Abel Ale

The Taste of Intoxication in Martinique: The Wine of the Elites, the Elite of Wines (1880-1910) by Louis Abel Alexis is a captivating dive into the history of wine consumed by the Martinican elites during the colonial period, from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. Through a detailed historical analysis, the author sheds light on the intimate relationship between wine and the island's high society, while exploring the contrasts between French and local influences.

By tracing the introduction of wine in Martinique from the time of colonization, Louis Abel Alexis shows how this beverage, already well established in Europe, becomes a symbol of power and prestige for Creole elites. Imported by the first Europeans and sold in the shops of Saint-Pierre as early as the 18th century, wine strengthens the link between the mainland and the colonies. The arrival of champagne, in particular, further accentuates this dynamic, marking a turning point in alcohol consumption among the elites, whether white or mixed-race.

However, while adopting wine, Martinique also sees the development of local beverages like rum and tafia, which come to compete with this European-origin drink. These local spirits become strong identity markers of Creole society. Although prestigious, wine then shares the role of the drink of choice with rum, symbolizing both the continuity and adaptation of colonial culture in a tropical territory.

This book also highlights the social impact of alcohol consumption in colonial society. Indeed, with the rise in the consumption of wine and rum, drunkenness and alcoholism become widespread phenomena, not only among the elites but throughout Martinican society. The author analyzes the consequences of these practices, both socially and culturally, while emphasizing the uniqueness of the colonial experience in the French Antilles.

With a clear and well-documented style, Louis Abel Alexis offers us a journey to the heart of colonial Martinique, where wine and rum are not just beverages, but structuring elements of social life and strong identity markers of the elites. The book is both a valuable contribution to the history of colonial gastronomy and to the understanding of social dynamics in the Antilles during this period.

Article Features:

• Format: Paperback
• EAN13: 9782336485232
• ISBN: 978-2-336-48523-2
• Publisher: L'Harmattan
• Publication Date: 10/10/2024
• Collection: Food and Gastronomic Issues
• Number of pages: 180
• Dimensions: 21.5 x 13.5 x 1 cm
• Weight: 216 g
• Language: French