French Wine (English edition): A History by Rod Phillips

French Wine: A History by Rod Phillips is a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the history of French wine, a product inseparable from the culture and national identity of France. This work is the first complete synthesis of the history of wine in France, covering the evolution of wine production from the first imports by the Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans to its adoption by the Gauls, and the transformation of wine into a central product of French culture.

The author, Rod Phillips, places the cultivation of vines and winemaking in each major region of France in broad historical and cultural contexts, highlighting how religion, economy, politics, and even war have shaped the wine industry.

Each chapter delves into fascinating details, illustrating the importance of world-renowned regions such as Champagne, Bordeaux, and Burgundy which continue to serve as international benchmarks for other wines. This book sheds light on often overlooked elements, such as the impact of climate, vine diseases, and economic revolutions on the wine market.

Enriched by an analysis of cultural, religious, and commercial influences, this book is a must-read for sommeliers, collectors, wine enthusiasts, as well as wine industry professionals. The anecdotes and historical facts presented make the reading both informative and captivating, inviting the reader to revisit their understanding of French wine and its place in the modern world.

French Wine: A History is published by the University of California Press, ensuring rigorous research and an accessible academic approach.

Item Features

• Title: French Wine (English edition): A History
• Author: Rod Phillips
• Format: Paperback / softback
• Number of pages: 319
• Publisher: University of California Press
• ISBN: 9780520355439
• Publication Date: April 7, 2020
• Weight: 434 g
• Dimensions: 143 x 220 x 24 mm
• Language: English