There's nothing trivial about it

There are lots of little things in life that make a big difference, toasting being one of them, declares Greg Davis, master distiller for Ridgemont Reserve 1792 small-batch Kentucky bourbon, who urges revelers to impress family and friends with their knowledge of toasting trivia as well as their ability to deliver a toast for any occasion.

Toasting a person or group is a tradition tracing back at least 5,000 years. The word "toast" originated from the practice of tossing a piece of bread into one's beverage to help drown out the taste of acidic wine.

In the 1600s, it was not unusual for people to carry a sword, dagger, or other weapon in their right hand. As an act of friendship, individuals would raise a glass--rather than a dangerous implement--in their right hand. Most Americans follow this tradition when toasting today. Clinking glasses, meanwhile, stems from the superstition that the sound kept evil spirits away.

Never toast with tea, coffee, or water, but feel free to seal your toast with a sip of champagne, wine, a mixed drink, or nonalcoholic punch. When at a wedding, it is polite to toast the bride first, then the groom, followed by the maid of honor, parents and, lastly, the best man. More Americans toast on New Year's Eve than any other single occasion.

When giving a toast, make it short and relevant to the occasion and people involved. Do not embarrass the subject of your toast. Know the toast well enough to deliver it perfectly. Refrain from telling inside jokes the audience will not understand.

If you are the subject of a toast, sit graciously and quietly, accept the honor with a smile, and do not drink to yourself.

COPYRIGHT 2005 Society for the Advancement of Education
COPYRIGHT 2006 Gale Group