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Archaeologists Revive Ancient Roman Winemaking Techniques to Recreate Vintage
19 Aug
Summary
- Archaeologists in Italy planting vineyard to make wine using 2,000-year-old Roman methods
- Relying on ancient texts by Virgil and Columella to guide the process
- Aiming to produce 70 liters of wine in first harvest, using traditional tools and fermentation
In a unique experiment, archaeologists in Italy are growing a vineyard and producing wine using ancient Roman winemaking techniques. Based at the University of Catania in Sicily, the team is planting vines near Catania and plans to harvest its first vintage within the next four years.
The researchers are meticulously following instructions from classical Roman texts, including Virgil's Georgics and the detailed guide by first-century AD grower Columella. Instead of modern equipment, they are using traditional wooden tools and methods, such as fastening vines with canes and broom. The wine will be fermented in large terracotta pots buried in the ground and sealed with clay or resin, rather than barrels.
The team aims to produce around 70 liters of wine in the first harvest, relying solely on the natural fermentation of the grapes without any added chemicals or agents. "We will try and make both the better stuff for nobles and the cheaper, more vinegary stuff for slaves," said researcher Mario Indelicato.
This experimental archaeology project not only seeks to uncover the tastes of ancient Roman wine, but also to raise public awareness about the advanced agricultural practices of the Romans, which were used in Sicily until a few decades ago.
