I raise my glass to Patrick McGovern, who mixes authoritative knowledge of ancient viniculture with inspired writing into a heady drink for the mind. This is a beautifully written book, full of insight into the origins, culture, and economy of wine.--Roald Hoffmann, Cornell University, 1981 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry Patrick McGovern serves us a magnificent feast of science and history that melds sophisticated chemistry with good, old-fashioned historical sleuthing. His innovative research has revolutionized our knowledge of the origins of one of humanitys greatest pleasures. This is an archaeological and gustatory delight for specialist and general reader alike.--Brian Fagan, University of California, Santa Barbara, author of The Little Ice Age Ancient Wine tells a dramatic, factual story of wines beginnings at the dawn of civilization 8,000 years ago, bringing to life what I have long believed-wine has been an essential part of the gracious way of life for many cultures. Patrick McGovern takes us on a fascinating journey back to the first experiments in making this marvelous beverage. He shows the central role of wine in human history, with insights drawn from archeology, chemistry, gastronomy, and the arts. Ancient Wine will please everyone who enjoys wine. I heartily recommend it.--Robert Mondavi, winemaker