David Wondrich, Punch: The Delights (and Dangers) of the Flowing Bowl (Perigee Trade). Storia del punch, raccontata in modo molto spiritoso e corredata da numerose ricette. Un must per natale.
Can you say a little bit more about the relationship between punch and class? Do you think it has some kind of inherently democratic appeal (because everyone is drinking from the same bowl)?

Punch began as a sailors' drink, where everyone onboard - officers and ordinary seamen alike - would partake together. It didn't always exercise that equalizing force, but it’s inherent in the format. A bowl of punch is a group effort, and people who choose not to partake find themselves at odds with the community. Most will put aside their standoffish ways and join in, but if they can’t or won’t, the nice thing is that nobody cares: all the more punch for us.