The rich history of humanity is intertwined with myths, but also with archaeologically confirmed facts. When it comes to wine, pinpointing the exact day the “juice of truth” was born is challenging. However, there are facts worth mentioning. Speaking of innovations, blends, and new production methods, it’s important to know who was there before us.
An 8000-year-old seed
According to archaeological findings, an 8000-year-old grape seed was discovered in clay vessels on the southern slopes of the Caucasus. This significant discovery confirms Georgia as the land where the grapevine was first domesticated. However, those who believe the grapevine appeared in China 9000 years ago also have a valid claim. The effort and beauty of this craft were passed on to other people over time.
In ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, grapes adorned the banks of the Nile, Tigris, and Euphrates rivers. We can thank the Egyptians for the creation of various types of wine. They earned this credit by discovering new techniques, such as better grape pressing. The spread of viticulture continued across the Bosporus. An important route to Thrace, Macedonia, and the Aegean islands led all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
We must acknowledge that this culture flourished during the Roman Empire. The cultivation of grapevines beyond the borders of Rome was furthered by Marcus Aurelius Probus. The Romans were pioneers in the classification of grape varieties, the study of terrain characteristics, and the development of wine production techniques.
Wine and Christianity
Of course, this historical journey leads us to Christianity. Wine holds a significant place in this religion. As a symbol of the body and blood of Christ, it occupies a central role in Holy Communion. In this way, as the religion spread, so did the presence of wine in the world.
Civilizations have dedicated considerable time to wine. Is there a homage to ancient times in the world of wine today?
Large wine bottles are often named after biblical kings. However, have you ever thought about the meaning of their names? Let’s start with the first bottle after the Standard.
From Magnum to Solomon
A Magnum is a practical bottle for larger gatherings, containing 1.5 liters of wine, which is equivalent to two standard bottles. Its name comes from the Latin word “magnum,” meaning “large”. Immediately after, there is the Double Magnum, holding 3 liters, equivalent to four standard bottles of wine. It is also known as Jeroboam, after the first king of northern Israel.
Rehoboam has a volume of 4.5 liters, which equals six standard bottles. It is most commonly used for champagne, and it is named after the son of King Solomon. Next comes Methuselah, with its 6 liters, equivalent to eight standard bottles. It is named after Methuselah, the patriarch who is the oldest man mentioned in the Old Testament. In the Bordeaux region, it is also known as Imperial.
Salmanazar can hold up to twelve standard bottles, a total of 9 liters of wine. It is named after five Assyrian kings known as great conquerors. Following it is Balthazar, with 12 liters, equivalent to 16 standard bottles. It is named after one of the three wise men who came to pay homage to baby Jesus.
Our journey leads us to the Nebuchadnezzar bottle, holding 15 liters. It is equivalent to 20 standard bottles. It is named after the greatest king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar II. We conclude this story with Solomon, a sage from Europe. According to the Old Testament, he was the King of Israel known for his great wisdom. The bottle named after him holds 18 liters, equivalent to 24 standard bottles.
There are other large bottles of different volumes, but they are made for special occasions. Of course, we will dedicate another text to them, so stay with us.
Cheers!
