- In Arabic, the word “kohl” means a fine powder of antimony used as an eye make-up. The word “alcohol” originally denoted any fine powder; the alchemists of medieval Europe later applied it to essences obtained by distillation, and this led to the current usage.
- Dionysus was the Greek god of wine and vegetation. He showed mortals how to cultivate grapes and make wine. In 5th century B.C., he was worshipped at celebrations that became associated with licentiousness and intoxication.
- The Neolithic period (8500-4000 B.C.) marked the first time in human prehistory where alcohol was fermented. They also produced bread, beer, meat, and grain dishes we enjoy today.
- Winemaking grapes never grew in Egypt, yet winemaking scenes appear on tomb walls. Most likely the trade between Egypt and Palestine accounted for the grapes.
- Women and men are affected differently by alcohol. If both genders drink the same amount of alcohol, the woman would have a higher blood-alcohol level. The difference may be attributed to body mass. Also, the activity level of the enzyme that breaks down the alcohol is lower in women.
- There is some anecdotal evidence that alcohol sipped through a straw is more potent than simply drinking straight from the glass. Drinking through a straw helps mix air with the alcohol, carrying it to the nasal cavity where it is absorbed more rapidly. An even flow of alcohol also boosts absorption efficiency.
- Carlsberg Beer of Copenhagen has its own yeast strain, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis.