Fermentation and civilization are inseparable.
-- John Ciardi (Page 9 paragraph 1)

Importance: This says it all… this is the entire premise of the book captured in a quote from Ciardi, an American poet (1916-86).

… although the origins of this ancient drink inevitably remain shrouded in mystery and conjecture, there is no question that the daily lives of Egyptians and Mesopotamians, young and old, rich and poor, were steeped in beer.
-- Tom Standage (Chapter 2 paragraph Page 23)

Importance: It is the author’s conclusion from the evidence available that beer was an integral part of the cultures of the first great ancient civilizations.

To rich and poor alike hath he granted the delight of wine, that makes all pain to cease.
-- Euripides (Page 48 paragraph 1)

Importance: The Greeks connected wine with the Gods. In his comment, playwright Euripides makes a reference to Dionysus, the god of wine, who made wine available to everyone - not just the wealthy.

With its carefully calibrated social divisions, its reputation or unparalleled cultural sophistication...
-- Tom Standage (Page 61 paragraph 2)