What was really in the cups of Iron Age Europe? Lauren Dogaer and Joshua Driscoll explore beer, mead, and wine
through archaeology and chemical analysis, revealing the drinks and rituals behind ancient feasting culture.
In the seventh episode of Drunk On History, host Lauren Dogaer talks with Joshua Driscoll, an archaeologist specializing in Iron Age Europe. Together, they explore the diverse drinking cultures of Iron Age communities, from beer and mead to wine and other fermented beverages. They discuss how different drinks were produced, consumed, and associated with everyday life, feasting, ritual, and social status. The conversation then turns to the social importance of drinking and feasting. Lauren and Joshua examine how alcohol helped build relationships, reinforce alliances, and express wealth and power. They also explore the changing drinking practices that emerged as Celtic communities came into increasing contact with the Greek and Roman worlds. Drawing on archaeological evidence, they reveal a complex and diverse drinking culture that challenges the traditional divide between “Roman” and “barbarian” drinking practices, showing how local traditions and Mediterranean influences came together to shape alcohol consumption across Iron Age Europe.
