A Victorian Woman's Guide to Wine

The History of Wine in the Victorian Era

As a woman living during the Victorian era, I was fascinated by the world of wine. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of wine during that time period and how it was perceived by society.

Wine has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, but its popularity in England during the 19th century was limited due to the country's Puritanical views on drinking. However, as the Industrial Revolution took hold and trade with Europe increased, wine began to gain more acceptance.

The Victorian era saw the rise of wine clubs and societies, where men would gather to taste and discuss different varieties. Women were not typically allowed to participate in these gatherings, but I was fortunate enough to have a few close friends who shared my passion for wine.

Wine and the Victorian Woman: A Contradiction?

As a woman living during this time period, I often found myself at odds with societal expectations. Women were expected to be demure and submissive, but my love of wine allowed me to break free from these constraints.

I recall attending a dinner party where the hostess served an exquisite Chablis. The men present were impressed by her knowledge of the wine, but I noticed that they seemed uncomfortable with my own enthusiasm for it.

Despite this, I continued to pursue my passion for wine, even going so far as to learn about the different regions and grape varieties.

Wine Tasting Notes: A Guide for the Modern Woman

As I've grown older, my appreciation for wine has only deepened. In this section, I'll share some of my favorite wines and tasting notes.

I must admit that I'm a bit biased towards French wines, particularly those from Burgundy and Bordeaux. The complexity and nuance found in these regions is unparalleled.

Of course, there are many other excellent wine-producing regions around the world. If you're new to wine, I recommend starting with a crisp white or a light-bodied red.