As a distinguished member of The Roman Senate circa 50 AD, Pliny the Elder proclaimed the health virtues of wine consumed in moderation, and wrote several books on the cultivation of grapes including techniques originating in Ancient Greece. It is fitting that history’s 1st wine critic hailed from Italy, given the volume of indigenous Italian grapes. This fascinating character is profiled in Hugh Johnson’s wonderful book that chronicles the history of wine. #wine #winepodcast #winehistory #plinytheelder #italianwine