Malcolm Gladwell once said that he drinks only milk, water, tea, and coffee; therefore, I have something in common with him…in the day-to-day. Nevertheless, I have been known to sample beer, wine, soda, and distilled spirits on occasion, too; anything I’ve ever poured into a glass inspired this list of listens. Here are some of my favorite titles, each of which mentions a libation (even though the story itself might not be about that beverage!). In other words, the list below encompasses great narrations of unpauseable stories, all nonfiction, though not all necessarily history. I hope my choices leave you shaken *and* stirred!
Potent potables
From beer and wine to soda and spirits, this list of libatious listens was inspired by anything you can pour in a glass.

Up Next

Editors Select: September 2025
16 new releases you can't miss—from memoir and fiction to mysteries and thrillers. Check out our most-anticipated listens of the month.

An essential guide to the life and literature of Jane Austen

Fall’s ultimate listening guide
