"Thomas Pellechia shows how the historically powerful wine trade has been a catalyst in important developments throughout the ages, such as sea mercantilism, early glass blowing, cooperage and cork production, trade fairs and festivals, advertising and promotion, the survival of civilization during the so-called Dark Ages, war financing, placating or pacifying troops, tranquilizing marauders, politics, literature, and more." "Wine: The 8,000-Year-Old Story of the Wine Trade is wine history from a commercial perspective, beginning with its believed known origins and ending with a glimpse into the future of the modern wine world. It will satisfy history buffs and wine consumers alike."--BOOK JACKET.