"Good wine needs no bush." Good actions are their own interpreters, they need no rhetoric to adorn them. The phrase derives its origin from a custom among vintners, of hanging out the representation of an ivy bush, as an indication that they sell wine; a custom common in Germany, in the time of Erasmus, and probably much earlier. It is still continued among us; many of the principal inns in this kingdom, both in town and country, being known by the sign of the bush. While signs were in fashion, Bacchus astride on his tun, and ample bunches of grapes, with their handsome foliage, were also general designations of the good liquor that was to be had within. The proverb is applicable to persons too earnest in their commendation of any articles they are desirous of selling. The Spaniards therefore say, "El vino que es bueno, no ha menester pregonéro," the wine that is good needs no trumpeter.
The ivy is said to be an antidote to the intoxicating power of wine, hence Bacchus is always painted with a wreath of ivy on his head, and it may be that it was on account of this supposed property, that in old times a bush of ivy was chosen, in preference to any other, by the vintners. The proverb has been pretty generally adopted. "Al buon vino," the Italians say, "non bisogna frasca," and the French, "Le bon vin n'a point besoin de bucheron." Is this the origin of the vulgar term "Bosky," applied to persons who are tipsy, or drunk, viz. he has been under the bush? The Scotch, who are accustomed to fix a bunch of hay against houses where ale is sold, say, "Good ale needs no whisp."