Serpent’s Tail snaps up 'gorgeous’ literary novel about sommeliers and wine critics

Serpent’s Tail has scooped Rochelle Dowden-Lord’s "gorgeous" literary debut novel, Lush, which takes the reader into the exclusive world of sommeliers and wine critics.

Commissioning editor Leonora Craig Cohen acquired UK Commonwealth rights, excluding Canada, from Karolina Sutton at CAA. The novel is scheduled for publication in summer 2025.

The book follows four characters who receive an invitation to drink the world’s oldest bottle of wine in a vineyard estate in the south of France.

The synopsis says: "Over the course of several days, they indulge in delicious food and drink, engage in raucous debauchery and confront hard truths about themselves that will leave them changed forever.

"The novel tackles themes of class, racism, addiction, professionalism and privacy with a deft touch, balancing riotously enjoyable set pieces and thoughtful exploration of important issues."

Cohen said: "I loved this book because of how utterly indulgent it feels, a literary reckoning with age, beauty, hedonism, expertise and longing."

Dowden-Lord is a writer and publishing professional at Fourth Estate and William Collins, and has co-hosted the literary podcast "Main Characters". She added: "It’s a such huge honour to be published by Serpent’s Tail. I’ve admired their publishing for years and count many of their titles among my favourites."