In all cultures of the world, the consumption of alcohol played and still plays a role. In most, it was and is a regular part of daily life. But there were and are also cultures that prohibit, or at least restrict, the consumption of alcohol. Mostly for religious reasons, but also for health reasons. Wine in particular has always been more than just a stimulant, but also a medicine, an antiseptic, an aphrodisiac, a preservative, a comforter, a source of strength, a medium of inspiration, a symbol of sacrifice, a component of rituals, festivities and contracts, and in many religions a sacred medium that was used to establish a mystical relationship with God or the gods.
![]()
In the past, you needed a wealth of encyclopaedias and specialist literature to keep up to date in your vinophile professional life. Today, Wine lexicon from wein.plus is one of my best helpers and can rightly be called the "bible of wine knowledge".
Prof. Dr. Walter Kutscher
Lehrgangsleiter Sommelierausbildung WIFI-Wien