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Scholar of Ancient Wine™
Mon, November 4, 2024 from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Monday Evenings, November 4th to January 6th. No class on November 11th (Veterans Day) or December 23rd (Christmas Break).
Embark on a journey through the millennia as you explore the ancient wine regions that laid the foundations for modern viticulture. This course delves into the rich history and enduring traditions of some of the world’s oldest wine-producing areas.
Caucasus Region (Georgia): Discover the birthplace of wine, where viticulture dates back to 6000-5800 BC. Learn about Georgia’s traditional qvevri winemaking method, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and its significance in the ancient and modern wine world.
Near East (Lebanon and Syria): With over 6,000 years of winemaking history, this region’s ancient cities and the Phoenicians were pivotal in spreading viticulture across the Mediterranean. Study the profound impact of these ancient cultures on contemporary wine practices.
Armenia: Uncover Armenia’s deep wine heritage, highlighted by the discovery of a 4100-year-old winery in the Areni cave. Explore the historical significance of this ancient winemaking hub.
Greece: Viticulture in Greece has been integral to its culture and mythology since around 4500 BC. Examine the role of wine in Greek society and its influence on Western civilization.
Istria (Croatia, Slovenia, Italy): This peninsula, shaped by Greek and Roman influences, is renowned for its diverse grape varieties. Understand how historical viticulture practices have evolved in this region.
Rome: Central to the Roman Empire, Rome’s viticultural legacy spread across Europe, establishing foundational practices and trade routes. Investigate Rome’s enduring impact on global wine culture.
Trinacria and Campania Felix: The ancient Greeks and Etruscans laid the foundations for viticulture in these regions, making them some of Europe’s oldest wine areas. Delve into their storied past and ongoing influence.
Türkiye: Anatolia’s viticulture dates back to 4000 BC, reflecting the contributions of ancient civilizations to winemaking. Learn about Türkiye’s ancient wine traditions and their lasting legacy.
Carthage (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia): The Phoenicians introduced winemaking to North Africa, with the region flourishing during the Roman era. Today, it is known for its rich array of grape varieties, continuing a millennia-old tradition amidst diverse climates and landscapes.
Baetica: Renowned for its sherry production, Andalucía’s viticultural history is steeped in Phoenician, Greek, and Roman influences. Explore how the region’s unique climate and soil conditions have shaped its distinctive winemaking tradition over thousands of years.
Join us for an immersive experience that not only enriches your understanding of ancient winemaking techniques and their historical contexts but also enhances your appreciation for the cultural heritage of wine.