Was the allure of absinthe – Romantic and malevolent by turns – simply the invention of the louche cafe crowd?

Russia’s problematic relationship with alcohol has inspired some powerful poster art

The rolling hills south of Lake Iseo – home to Monte Isolo, Europe’s largest lake island – produce the grapes used to make Italy’s secret sparkling wine: Franciacorta

Scotland’s capital city plays host to the largest celebration of the arts on the planet throughout August, and gin is fast becoming the drink of choice to toast the festivities