Our host, Luke Morris, took us on an historical journey through the vineyards of Champagne with a scientific twist. We learnt about early problems of wine making such as eye injuries from exploding bottles. Did you know the pressure in wines from the 1800s was 3 times that of your car tyre? Then he delved into more important topics such as why we really get hang-overs, exposing the many myths.

Luke also discussed the health benefits of wine. And although burpees in the gym are better for you than burps in the pub, alcohol does calm people’s anxiety. And he explains the biochemistry behind these effects. Previously, I didn’t know exactly why wine made my worries fade into the background, so it was fascinating to learn what happens to the neurotransmitters in your brain after a few drinks.

The graphics on the slide show looked like they had been done by a 5 year old (Luke admitted that he can’t draw) but that’s what made them funny. We were also entertained with some live demonstrations to help us understand what a ‘fruity, grassy, complex wine’ would really taste like.

If you like science, history and more importantly wine, then this is the show for you. It’s delivered in a quirky, fun way making dry subjects such as science and history enjoyable.

4 stars
By Adrian Hill

This show is on at The National Wine Centre