Ancient Wine Practices

Wine in ancient times was often diluted with water and flavored with herbs, spices, and even seawater. The Roman Empire saw a variety of wines, including posca for soldiers and lora for the impoverished. Despite the rise of Islam and its restrictions on alcohol, wine maintained its presence through religious practices and continued cultivation. The Middle Ages marked a significant expansion in grape varietals, leading to the establishment of the appellation system that defines wine regions today.