Archaeologists Uncork 150-Year-Old Utah Mystery Brew

A 150-year-old alcohol bottle, discovered this summer in Alta, Utah, has been successfully opened by experts. Archaeologists, led by Ian Wright, found the intact bottle at an archaeological site in the Wasatch Mountains, an area that was a bustling mining town in the 1870s. Intact bottles from this era are rare finds in Utah. Isaac Winter, head distiller at High West, noted the bottle was in "reasonably good shape" after 150 years. The team cautiously extracted the liquid, finding its aroma to be fruity with notes of leather and age, suggesting it was likely a beer. Sediment was present at the bottom, making the liquid appear cloudy. Researchers plan further analysis to see if any yeast remains viable, which could inform historical brewing techniques and possibly allow for the beer's recreation. Winter described tasting a small amount as not unpleasant.

The discovery is reminiscent of efforts to revive long-lost grains found on shipwrecks. The exploration of historical beverages like this one offers a unique glimpse into the past. Alta, though now known for ski resorts, was a significant hub during the mining boom of the late 19th century, making such a find particularly relevant to the area's history. The careful examination and opening process highlight the fragility and value of such historical artifacts.