There's nothing trivial about it.

• Position: Toasting - Brief Article

There are lots of little things in life that make a big difference, toasting being one of them, declares Greg Davis, master distiller for Ridgemont Reserve 1792 small-batch Kentucky bourbon, who urges revelers to impress family and friends with their knowledge of toasting trivia as well as their ability to deliver a toast for any occasion.

Toasting a person or group is a tradition tracing back at least 5,000 years. The word "toast" originated from the practice of tossing a piece of bread into one's beverage to help drown out the taste of acidic wine.

In the 1600s, it was not unusual for people to carry a sword, dagger, or other weapon in their right hand. As an act of friendship, individuals would raise a glass--rather than a dangerous implement--in their right hand. Most Americans follow this tradition when toasting today. Clinking glasses, meanwhile, stems from the superstition that the sound kept evil spirits away.

Never toast with tea, coffee...