Charles Hodgson, author of Global Wording, has recently released a new book, History of Wine Words: An Intoxicating Dictionary of Etymology and Word Histories from the Vineyard, Glass and Bottle.

This 208-page book provides a look at the origins of words related to wine. The book has three basic categories including locations/regions/, grape varietals and winemaking. While I have not read the book, from page to page, I have enjoyed browsing a large selection of the words. It is interesting that many of the words are so commonplace today that one doesn’t think about the development of the word. History of Wine Words does not cover every associated wine word. Hodgson has done his best to select words that he believes are of interest to people. Therefore while you find “maceration,” you won’t find “riddling.” 

The only word I discovered that I was disappointed in was “toast.” Hodgson refers to only one connotation of the word “toast” – the offering of a toast to someone. Nowhere in the discussion does he mention barrel “toast.”

With so many wine books on the market, History of Wine Words, makes an unusual addition to your collection. This book may appeal to the etymologist and wine lover. It is also a good conversation starter. The book is available at Amazon. 

Cheers! Kathy