This week, we’re wetting our whistles with an array of historic, rare and homemade drinks. Journalist Jonny Garrett tells the true story of beer, including its use as a dietary supplement for children, a religious rite in prehistoric caves, and as a form of Ancient Egyptian currency. Plus, Aaron Goldfarb tells us about the collectors who hunt for very old bottles of booze; Alex Aïnouz cries over a sip of his homemade red wine; and JM Hirsch shares a delightfully salty cocktail tip.

Questions in this episode:

"I’m looking to recreate a wine cocktail recipe I had recently. Can you help?"

"I have a bottle of non-alcoholic rum. What should I do with it?"

"What’s the ingredient or factor that’s making my eggs grow so much while baking?"

"How do I recreate my husband’s favorite biscuits at home?"