Why do we call it a "toast" ? - The english phrase "toast"comes from the practice of floating a piece of burnt toast on top of the wine of the loving cup. The reason for this was that the toast took away some of the acidity of the wine. Back years ago wine wasn't as good as it is today, so this floating piece of burnt toast worked well to tone down the sharpness of the wine.
The clinking of glasses creates a bell like noise. In years past, and by those who are superstitious yet today, that noise is said to repel the devil. Many couples today follow the ritual of Kissing as glasses are clinked, taking the opportunity to "connect" when the devil is not around to create havoc.
