When most people think of wine, they automatically think of the vast vineyards of France and Italy, so it might surprise many to learn that the first hint of wine production was actually discovered in Georgia, the tiny country of ancient Russia located along the Black River. Mar. There is evidence of wine production here dating back to 8000 BC. C., proving that wine really is something that has delighted the palate for more than 10,000 years.
It seems that the wine craze spread from the Georgian location in all directions, with sites found in Iran, Armenia, and Egypt dating back the following millennia. However, it wasn’t until Roman times that wine became a truly mainstream drink and many people today still think that the Romans constantly had a glass of their favorite red on hand at all times. In fact, it was probably the Romans who accelerated the spread of wine throughout Europe, including in France, and therefore wine lovers have much to thank the Romans for.
Moving forward through history, the wine industry began to go from strength to strength. The church fully supported its production in medieval times due to the religious connotations it had, the Islamic states under the control of the Ottoman Empire tried to ban it but failed, and during the 1300s and 1400s many vineyard areas sprang up in some of today’s vineyards. most famous places, including Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux. Furthermore, the popular German wine Riesling was also first produced during the 15th century. As you can see, while the Romans spread the love of wine throughout Europe, it was only in medieval times that winemaking became an art.
During the following centuries, Europe became the nerve center of everything related to wine; all the most expensive bottles were produced there and most of the wealthy drinkers of this drink also lived in Europe. In fact, it wasn’t until the 20th century that wine production from other parts of the world really started to take off, with some surprising results.
Perhaps the most significant change the 20th century saw in terms of wine was the rise of the United States in the industry. Until the mid-20th century, Europeans looked down on American wine, but in 1976 American winemakers made a remarkable showing at the Paris Wine Tasting, the premier event on the wine lovers’ calendar. After this display, more success immediately followed and soon California wine was recognized as an excellent choice. This was also the same for many South American countries, with Argentinian and Chilean wine becoming a regular fixture on tables around the world.
As we move into the 21st century, the world of wine has moved a million miles from its original roots in Georgia. Wines from every corner of the world can now be found and a once localized industry has become not only a global phenomenon, but a way of life for many around the world.
No Comment