Claret and Olives, from the Garonne to the Rhon, or, Notes social, picturesque, and legendary, by the way.
New York: G.P. Putnam, 10 Park Place, 1852.
Series: Putnam's Semi-monthly Library for Travelers and the Fireside, no. vii. Octavo (18.5 x 12.5 cm.), 235 pages. Frontispiece, illustrated with an engraving signed "J.W. Orr, N.Y.". FIRST AMERICAN EDITION, following the London first of the same year. "This work is reprinted from the early proof sheets of the London edition by special arrangement." The narrative of a traveler's journey through Bordeaux, the Garonne, Jurancon and the Pyrannees, the Midi, and Burgundy, all the while relaying tales of local customs. Focus is on wine, winemaking, wine festivals, etc., with asides to insult French agriculture. The author, Angus Bethune Reach (1821-1856), a Scottish-born journalist and novelist, worked for both the Chronicle and Punch, and it was in the Chronicle that this work made its original appearance. Reach reminds the reader that the English love of the wines of Bordeaux, Burgundy and beyond is not based solely on issues of taste or proximity, but is rooted in long mingling of English and Gascon (Richard the Second was christened there). The book was well received, e.g., "Those who have a mind to know something of the South of France will do well to consult this lively and agreeable volume" (Blackwood, quote in the Journal of Science and Art, no. 1842, page 407), or "A fresh clever-spirited book – full of lively detail" (Gentleman's Magazine 1852, page 191). Some foxing to text block; in modern, red, half morocco, red cloth boards, gilt-titled at the spine. Near fine. Pencl ownership inscription to preliminary blank, "Betton's". [Amerine & Borg 2829; Gabler G35710 (London ed.); not in Noling].
Price: $200.00