Fermentation is one of the oldest ways humans have used microbes. In his book From Caveman to Chemist, Hugh W. Salzberg retells some of the ancient history of fermentation. Since grains, fruits, juices, milk, and other organic liquids ferment naturally, some speculate that fermented drinks and dairy products must have been available not long after early people developed agriculture. The Bible refers to vineyards, wine, and the effects of too much alcohol consumption. Hannah, the mother of the prophet Samuel, was mistakenly admonished by the high priests to “put away thy wine from thee.” Ashurbanipal (668-626 BC), the last great Assyrian emperor, was something of an expert on wines. He compiled a list of what he considered the best wines.