How Booze Built Britain

Join award-winning drinks writer Henry Jeffreys for a spirited exploration of how alcohol has shaped, mirrored and even made history.

About the event

This lively talk blends stories from Henry’s critically acclaimed book ‘Vines in a Cold Climate’, which chronicles the improbable rise of English wine from national joke to world-class export, as well as inebriated tales from his popular podcast ‘Intoxicating History’.

Expect to hear about: the eccentric English sparkling wine pioneers who took on the might of Champagne and won; how the French hid their finest vintages from the Nazis during the Second World; and Britain’s outside influence on how the world drinks.

Through wit, research and a sip or two, Henry reveals how our drinks reflect British identity and how some of the greatest moments in history were written under the influence.

Hosted by travel writer Ash Bhardwaj, this event is perfect for lovers of history, storytelling and a well-poured glass of wine.

Additional information

This event is eligible for our 20% ticket bundle discount.

Book tickets to three or more different events across the festival and you can save 20%. Tickets must be purchased in the same transaction and the discount will automatically be applied within the basket.

About the speaker

Henry Jeffreys is an acclaimed journalist, alcohol historian and public speaker, who recently won Drink Book of the Year for ‘Vines in a Cold Climate’ at the Fortnum and Mason Food and Drink Awards 2024, following up on his Drink Writer of the Year Award in 2022.

Alongside food journalist Tom Parker-Bowles, Henry hosts a witty podcast on the world’s favourite beverages ‘Intoxicating History’. He has also appeared on ‘The Rest is History’ podcast.