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The Toasting Ritual: Tradition, Culture, and Superstitions Surrounding Wine
Few gestures around the world are as universal as the toast: a fine drink, clinking glasses, and wishing the best to the person in front of you. But do you know the origin of this ancient tradition? How is it celebrated across the globe? Stay with us, and we'll tell you all about it.
Origin
The term "brindis" originates from the German phrase "bring dir's." It appears that this term, which evolved into the Italian word “brindis”, is attributed to the "lansquenetes," German mercenaries in the service of Charles V, who, after sacking Rome in 1527, exclaimed this expression to offer the victory and the city to the emperor while raising their glasses. However, this gesture is much older, as although the origin is uncertain, it is known that the Romans and the Greeks also had various rituals before drinking: from pouring part of the liquid on the ground as an offering to the gods, to the gesture of raising the glass for slaves to refill it, including the perfidious theory of poisoning where, after clinking glasses, both drinkers ensured that neither of the vessels contained any harmful substance.
Traditional European Toast: Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and England
While in Spain, the most common phrase when toasting is «Salud», in Germany, they say "Prost" (crossed toasting is also forbidden) and in France Santé (the glass should not be filled more than halfway).
Regardless of the language, Europeans maintain certain gestures such as making eye contact or drinking in small sips.
In Spain, the famous chin-chin comes from the Chinese word “qing,” meaning «please». It seems this expression was used by the host at gatherings to invite guests to empty their glasses. After the Franco-Chinese war, this expression reached Europe through the soldiers who fought in it. Whatever the case, what is forbidden is to say “La última y nos vamos” as this expression is associated with the ill omen of death. Better not tempt fate…
Another intriguing case is England, where the expression “toast” comes directly from the old custom of placing a piece of toast in the drink. Bread soaked in hot wine was a common meal in medieval Europe. Curious, isn't it?
Armenia and Georgia
Elsewhere in the world, there are still very peculiar ways of toasting. In Georgia, before the toast, it is mandatory for each drinker to tell a story to honour the host; whereas in Armenia, the custom is that the last person to finish their glass must buy the next bottle. Don't get caught off guard!
China and Japan
In Asia, they are much more meticulous and careful. In countries like China, the toast, which is treated as a full ritual, is inevitably linked to closing a business deal. In this case, the drink is always served to the person of highest rank or age and, when toasting, the glasses are clinked slowly, ensuring that the glass never rises above the host's or the eldest person's glass. Once the glasses are clinked, the contents must be finished completely… And beware of not participating in the toast, as it could be considered disrespectful!
In Japan, this ceremonial practice is maintained, as when in a group, one should never serve oneself.
Hungary
In some countries, toasting has even become a prohibited gesture. This was the case in Hungary between 1848 and 1998, as this gesture reminded people of Austria's victories over Hungary in the 19th century. In those conflicts, the Austrians, each time they executed a Hungarian, would toast heartily with beer, making it a gesture that is still frowned upon today and that offends sensitivities.
Sweden, Russia, and Finland
In Sweden, the origin of the toast—known as “Skål”—dates back to the Viking era. Before drinking, these warriors would stare intently as a way to ensure their fellow drinker would not draw a weapon. Although much less violent, this gesture is still maintained today, with eye contact being made whenever there is something to celebrate.
The same fortitude is demonstrated in Russia, where at the shout of “Vashe zdorovie,” vodka must flow regardless of the consequences. In fact, mixing this drink with any other complement is frowned upon, and it is necessary to always finish the bottle.
In Finland, things change radically. The story goes that when Finnish sailors arrived in England in the 10th century, pub owners would ask them to keep the peace (“keep the peace” in English). The Finns, not understanding a word of the language, mimicked the phrase each time they raised their glasses, eventually leading to “Kippis.”
Nigeria
Much more spiritual are in Nigeria, where the general motto when toasting is “Ekele diri,” which means «Let us give thanks». A toast that, without a doubt, goes straight to the heart.
In conclusion, toasting is much more than clinking glasses… It is culture, history, superstition, and above all, a shared wish. So now you know, the next time you raise your glass, do it with style, respect the local tradition, and toast to what matters: being together.
