Wine is one of the world’s oldest drinks and many cultures around the globe enjoy it. White wine is one of the most common types, and it has been around for thousands of years. Whether you’re a long-term connoisseur or are beginning to delve into the world of wine, below is more information about this drink’s intriguing history.

Ancient Wine

Current archaeological evidence suggests that people first enjoyed white wine around 3,500 B.C. in modern-day Iran. There, people fermented it from non-colored grape pulp and delivered the result to Mesopotamia. Early Israeli and Armenian cultures also made wine as early as 4,000 B.C., and manufactured it in earthenware that they would bury in the ground.

The Greeks were next to enjoy white wine, and were drinking it as early as 460 B.C. Many healers thought it was medicinal, and would distribute it throughout the region, according to texts from Hippocrates.

Then, the Romans adopted Greek winemaking and began cultivating grapes throughout the Bay of Naples and fertile regions in Italy. Many Romans preferred to chill the wine in the summer, and warm it in winter. Legionnaires also drank it during times of war, as it was a healthy substitute for undrinkable water.

Middle Age Winemaking

Winemaking became less popular after the Roman Empire, and many people began to prefer beer of Germanic and Viking cultures in the region. Wine remained a local drink that Catholic societies produced and used in their ceremonies.

White wine began to spread again with the creation of new storage solutions. Cultures along the Rhine and Danube rivers could easily reach local ports and vineyards to spread the drink throughout central Europe. Its regional success soon spread to Europe’s Atlantic coast. The Crusades would introduce Western Europeans to the sweeter white varieties of the east, increasing demand and trade.

Modern White Wines

Wines spread to the Americas in the early 1500s on Spanish and Portuguese ships. Popular varieties included port, Marsala, and sherry. Other modern varieties emerged in Europe, including German rieslings and and Hungarian Tokaji. White wines became the drink of choice for royalty throughout Europe, making them more popular. Glass and coal production made it easier to preserve, transport, and sell large quantities of wine throughout the world.

If you’re looking for delicious, local white wine in Maryville, IL, contact Bella Vista Winery. These professionals have over 15 years of winemaking experience and offer a variety of products. Stop by for a wine tasting or schedule their stunning space as a wedding venue. Learn more about the winery on their website, or call (618) 228-9111 to speak with a team member. Connect on Facebook to receive updates about events.