Distilled: A Natural History of Spirits

In this follow-up book to A Natural History of Wine and A Natural History of Beer, authors Rob DeSalle and Ian Tattersall use alcoholic beverages as a lens to explore natural history, covering spirits from across the globe and their scientific dimensions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

In this captivating sequel to A Natural History of Wine and A Natural History of Beer, authors Rob DeSalle and Ian Tattersall take readers on an imaginative journey through the diverse world of spirits, encompassing a wide range of alcoholic beverages from whiskey and gin to grappa and moonshine. Through the lens of alcoholic beverages, the authors offer a unique perspective on natural history, delving into topics such as evolution, ecology, history, primatology, molecular biology, physiology, neurobiology, chemistry, and even astrophysics. Accompanied by stunning illustrations by Patricia Wynne, the book explores historical and cultural aspects, ingredients, the distillation process, and the effects of spirits. It also features contributions from an international group of colleagues, covering brandy, vodka, tequila, whiskies, gin, rum, eaux-de-vie, schnapps, baiju, grappa, ouzo, and cachaça. This comprehensive exploration of spirits delves into the scientific dimensions of these beverages, providing an accessible and engaging journey for readers of all backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned spirit enthusiast or a curious explorer, this book will captivate your senses and deepen your understanding of the fascinating world of spirits.

Dimension: 229 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300255157