Epistenology: Wine as Experience

Nicola Perullo challenges the traditional approach to appreciating wine by arguing that it is the enjoyment of drinking wine as an active and participatory experience that matters. He suggests that wine comes to life in the real world of shared experiences, where wines can change and drinkers along with them. Epistenology presents a new paradigm for the enjoyment of wine, based on participatory and relational knowledge, and shows how it can make life more creative and free.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2020
Publisher: Columbia University Press

We often believe that we possess a deep understanding of wine, with trained connoisseurs savoring delicate sips in sterile rooms and offering ratings based on objective knowledge and technical expertise. However, in his book "Epistenology," Nicola Perullo takes a bold stance by challenging this conventional approach. He argues that the true essence of wine lies not in the sterile environment of professional tastings but in the vibrant and participatory experience of drinking it.

Perullo contends that wine comes to life not in the abstract realm of professional evaluation but in the real world of shared experiences. He believes that wines can undergo transformations and reveal their full potential when encountered by a group of drinkers in a specific place and time. Wine is not merely an object to analyze but a vessel to be experienced, opening up new perceptual possibilities for settings, cuisines, and companions.

Over the course of more than twenty years of research and practical engagement, Perullo has developed a novel paradigm for the enjoyment of wine. He presents a philosophy centered around participatory and relational knowledge, suggesting a profound shift from knowledge about wine to a deeper connection with it. Through his book, Perullo weaves philosophical arguments with personal reflections and literary examples, taking readers on a captivating journey with wine that demonstrates how it can enhance life's creativity and freedom.

In "Epistenology," Perullo challenges the notion that wine appreciation is solely about technical expertise and objective knowledge. He emphasizes that the subjective experience of drinking wine is just as important, if not more so. He encourages readers to approach wine with an open mind, to engage with it actively, and to appreciate its complexities and nuances. By doing so, they can discover new flavors, aromas, and textures that they may have previously overlooked.

Perullo also challenges the notion that wine should be consumed in isolation or in a sterile environment. He argues that wine is meant to be enjoyed in the company of others, to be shared and savored in the context of social interactions. He suggests that wine can enhance the enjoyment of meals, conversations, and even moments of solitude. By embracing the social aspect of wine, drinkers can create meaningful connections and experiences that are truly memorable.

Furthermore, Perullo argues that wine is not just a beverage but a catalyst for creativity and self-discovery. He believes that wine can inspire and provoke thought, and that it can be used as a tool for personal growth and exploration. By engaging with wine, drinkers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and the world around them.

In conclusion, "Epistenology" by Nicola Perullo offers a fresh and innovative perspective on the enjoyment of wine. By challenging the conventional approach and emphasizing the participatory and relational nature of wine, Perullo invites readers to re-evaluate their relationship with this beloved beverage. Through his book, he provides a roadmap for creating meaningful connections, enhancing creativity, and discovering the true essence of wine. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice seeking to explore the world of wine, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience wine in a more profound and fulfilling way.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231197519