IMHO the best part of the article is in the italian exemple: considering wine as just a kind of food or as a way to get high is a cultural thing. Usually it's both, but one of the dimensions prevails.
I can not talk about Italy, but the same seems to happens in France: we try to accomodate the plate with the wine. In such a situation, you do not drink to get buzzed, but because it tastes good with the plate.
IIRC I was served my first wine when I was 10, but that did not turn me into a wino. I still enjoy wine - with good food :-)
I can not talk about Italy, but the same seems to happens in France: we try to accomodate the plate with the wine. In such a situation, you do not drink to get buzzed, but because it tastes good with the plate.
IIRC I was served my first wine when I was 10, but that did not turn me into a wino. I still enjoy wine - with good food :-)