1-18-2024 9:30pm

Book News - Second Edition of Wine and the White House By Author Frederick J. Ryan, Jr.

Donnella Tilery Editor

First edition, second addition on sale in February

In WINE AND THE WHITE HOUSE: A History, Frederick, J. Ryan, Jr., traces the rich history and role of wine at the president’s table. On February 16, 2024, the White House Historical Association will publish a second edition of the book, which includes a new chapter on President Joe Biden’s use of wine in official entertaining, a stunning new cover, and a new spread on Château Margaux, which has had a long and unique association with America and its presidents.

WINE AND THE WHITE HOUSE takes readers on a journey through history to reveal just how influential wine has been to diplomatic relations and social entertaining at the White House, complete with illustrated menus, bills of sale, historic photographs, and new photography of the White House Collection of wine glasses, goblets, carafes, coolers, and decanters.

Early presidents recognized the important function wine played in entertaining at the White House. While some appreciated and enjoyed wine, others considered it merely a ceremonial necessity. Still others campaigned to outlaw wine and banned it from the White House; their successors celebrated its return. More recently, all presidents, regardless of whether they enjoyed wine themselves, have used the White House as a venue to showcase the fine wines produced in the United States.

The book opens with information about every president’s experience of wine in the White House and goes on to explore how presidents selected wines and how wine has been acquired, stored, and served in the White House. It also shares information about the grape varietals and growing regions around the world that have furnished wine throughout the history of the White House and includes reflections from some of the most prominent winemakers operating in these regions today.

“Wine lovers know that much more goes into the experience of fine wine than simply the drink itself,” writes Ryan in the book’s introduction. “The glass, décor, food, ambiance, and company all contribute, especially in a setting as stunning and memorable as a formal White House dinner.” A richly illustrated history of the glassware and service pieces used at the White House, photos from notable presidential toasts, and menu cards from historic White House gatherings create a sense of such an atmosphere. For readers interested in learning about the specific wines and vintages served at the White House since WWII, the final chapter contains a comprehensive list, the first of its kind.

WINE AND THE WHITE HOUSE illustrates how wine, carefully selected and served, has become much more than a pleasant drink to sip with meals: It plays an important role in White House hospitality, the nation’s diplomacy, and America’s history.

Books have been published on several aspects of life in the White House, including music, food, art, and entertaining, but never before has an entire volume been devoted to wine. Whether you are a devotee of presidential history, a lover of wine, or a fan of both, WINE AND THE WHITE HOUSE is both informative and entertaining.