21 March 2012

Cafe Science looks at alcohol 'through the Drinking Glass'

The history and future of alcohol production and consumption will be examined at the next Cafe Science event to be held in Dundee.

Graeme Walker, Professor of Zymology at the University of Abertay Dundee, will deliver a talk entitled 'Through the Drinking Glass, and the Story of Alcohol' at Chambers Coffee Shop, 34 South Tay St, Dundee on Monday, 26th March.

Professor Walker will shed some light on our relationship with alcohol by looking at its origins and likely future, as well as its use for purposes other than drinking. He will also answer questions from the audience following the conclusion of the event.

"Alcohol has been made by humans for thousands of years, and is intimately linked with human history," explained Professor Walker.

"The ancient art forms of brewing, winemaking and distilling are now regarded as true scientific disciplines, and I will be discussing how beer, wine, whisky and other alcoholic drinks are made before discussing some of the advances associated with modern production.

"In recent times bioethanol has become a very valuable source of renewable energy as a biofuel, and we'll be looking at the pros and cons of global fuel alcohol production."

The monthly Cafe Science events take the form of informal discussions led by leading local researchers that allow members of the public the opportunity to learn more about the ground-breaking science taking place at the Universities of Dundee and Abertay, the James Hutton Institute, and Dundee Science Centre.

Professor Walker's takes place at 7pm on Monday, 26th March. Seating is limited so attendees are advised to arrive early. Hot meals can be ordered until 6.15pm, and entry is free and open to all.

Cafe Science was launched in January 2008, and nearly 3000 people have attended the events since then.

For more information visit Cafe Science website.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk
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