Sipping Through Stories: Wine Writing Tips Inspired by Legendary Travel Writers

The sun sets over the Parthenon

Never before have so many wanted to spend their days visiting vineyards and writing about the magical subject of wine. Yet somehow, the profession (or should I say vocation?) is in a state of crisis. Arguably, it always has been. Nevertheless, as wine publications struggle for revenue, and the large tech platforms further choke visibility and traffic, the fragmentation of quality voices continues. Dispersing in their wake is a critical mass of engaged readers. With A.I. lurking menacingly on the horizon, raising the bar on quality is crucial for survival.

Given the stakes, we might consider an extended delve into early 20th century English travel writing as a little indulgent. Lingering on the pretty phrases of well-schooled gentlemen, endlessly keen to express their comfort with the very great works of the ancient world, would usually sit at odds with the incessant buzz of notifications, emails and the need to keep content and invoices flowing.

Yet, the predicament is providing splendid opportunity for meandering exploration through some of the more literary and erudite texts of the genre. In many cases, they are harmless, hapless adventures, and ooze the kind of personality that makes such writing timeless. So, filing my inquiry under research, and temporary escapism, I embarked on Robert Bryon’s iconic Road to Oxiana.

Released in 1937, the book recounts his travels through the Levant and the broader Middle East. The author’s self-effacing approach particularly resonates with British readers, yet it stands out globally as a literary gem, blending humorous narrative with perceptive insights. His descriptive language vividly sets the scene, conveying the spirit of the locales and their inhabitants.

While the author primarily focuses on Islamic architectural marvels, he intersperses his expansive knowledge with entertaining anecdotes from his eventful adventure. His expertise is evident, seamlessly integrating historical commentary. However, this serves more as a structure to prevent the overtaking of the narrative by its more flamboyant figures. To him, architecture is just one of many travel incentives, but not the core narrative.

Henry Vollam Morton, noted for his travel writing, holds attention despite critiques of his character. Recently, I have been engrossed in A Traveller in Southern Italy (1969). While less lyrical, its structure bears resemblance. His fascination with saintly lives drives his journeys, yet he harnesses his considerable knowledge with subtlety, allowing the reader to uncover insights gradually.

The topic of wine consistently offers interesting content for writing, offering many specialties to pursue. To me, the most captivating wine literature, akin to great travel writing, is provocative and evocative, connecting with readers on a deeper emotional level and stirring a desire for experience. Essentially, the most memorable wine books tend to transcend the subject of wine itself.

Paul Theroux, the great American writer noted that, “travel writing begins in journalism, slides into fiction, and ends in autobiography”. Reflecting on the luminous and refined columns by Hugh Johnson or Michael Broadbent, a thought by Hemingway comes to mind: “If a writer knows enough about what he is writing about, he may omit things that he knows. The dignity of movement of an iceberg is due to only one ninth of it being above water.”

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About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!