Cadet De Vaux, Antoine Alexis
Istruzione su l'arte di fare il vino
1800, Milano, Dalla tipografia di Luigi Veladini
First edition
First Italian edition, rare. Antoine-Alexis Cadet de Vaux (1743-1828), a friend of Duhamel and Parmentier, was a noted French agronomist, founder of the Journal de Paris, and collaborator on the Cours complet d’agriculture pratique published in six volumes. This essay was published in France the same year (Paris, Colas) and was inspired by Chaptal’s doctrine. Le Re (1802) states that this pamphlet “brings together all the new chemical theories.” It includes a printed letter from the Minister of the Interior (and Napoleon's younger brother), Lucien Bonaparte, addressed to the departmental prefect, ordering that this translation be widely disseminated.
At once practical and visionary, L’arte di fare il vino transforms the empirical wisdom of Chaptal, Rozier, and Parmentier into a coherent method for winemaking grounded in observation rather than superstition. Cadet-de-Vaux guides the reader from the harvest through fermentation and preservation, explaining how temperature, air, and cleanliness shape the wine’s character. His aim is not only to improve quality but to dignify the vigneron’s craft through knowledge. This rational, humane approach quickly crossed borders, inspiring Italian translations and agricultural reforms that helped modernize Mediterranean viticulture in the early 19th century. Seen from today’s perspective, the book’s insistence on understanding natural processes, rather than forcing them, echoes the same respect for balance and authenticity that defines contemporary natural winemaking. It stands as a reminder that innovation and nature need not be opposed: the best wines, then as now, are born of harmony between science, soil, and human care.
Enlightenment oenology made mainstream by Napoleon's brother: Cadet-de-Vaux makes chemical fermentation feel philosophical, a rational toast to natural wine avant la lettre.
Pp.87
Original light-blue blank paper wrappers; spine with losses; old manuscript notes (numbers) on the front cover. Private library stamp on the title page (Melc. Gandola – Bellagio); a pale but broad damp-stain extending from the inner lower corner. Uncut and mostly unopened, giving this ephemeral publication an unexpected charm. Reference: Paleari-Henssler, I, p. 134. B.I.N.G., 369. Vicaire, 138
Dimensions (inches): 8 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 1/2
Antoine-Alexis Cadet-de-Vaux (1743-1828), French chemist, agronomist, and Enlightenment reformer, collaborator of Chaptal; promoted scientific winemaking and public hygiene.
Condition & Provenance Reports
Additional notes and photographs available by request.
Insured & Signature Shipping
Secure, fully insured delivery requiring signature. Gift wrapping available on request.
Collector & Wants-List Service
Submit wants lists for tailored notifications and acquisition support.
