The history of wine is as complex and aged as the flavors that dance on the tongues of those who appreciate this ancient beverage. For centuries, civilizations across the globe have been cultivating vines, fermenting grapes, and refining the process to produce the delectable wines we enjoy today. These vintages tell the story of human innovation, cultural evolution, and the timeless pursuit of pleasure and celebration.
This article explores some of the oldest wines unearthed and preserved, offering a glimpse into the past through the lens of winemaking. Each of the wines listed below serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of wine culture and the unbroken chain linking contemporary enthusiasts back to their historical counterparts.
Oldest Wines in The World
1. Speyer Wine Bottle (Römerwein)
Believed to be the oldest unopened bottle of wine in existence, the Speyer Wine Bottle, or Römerwein, dates back to the 4th century AD. It was discovered in 1867 within a Roman noble’s tomb near Speyer, Germany.
The greenish-yellow glass amphora is sealed with wax, which has kept its contents remarkably preserved over the centuries. It is thought that the wine inside has since turned into a mixture of vinegar and sediment. Despite the allure of its age, experts have decided against opening the bottle, preferring to preserve its historical value.
2. Château de Goulaine
Founded in the year 1000 by the Goulaine family, the Château de Goulaine is one of the oldest operating wineries in existence. Located in the Loire Valley of France, it has been producing wine for over a millennium. The winery is known for its Muscadet wines, which are crisp, aromatic whites perfect for seafood pairings.
The chateau itself serves as a museum, offering insights into the rich history of wine production in the region. Its longevity is a testament to the family’s dedication to viticulture and the enduring quality of its wines.
3. Schloss Johannisberg
Situated in the Rheingau region of Germany, Schloss Johannisberg has a storied history of wine production that dates back to the early 12th century. It is renowned for claiming the title of the first Riesling winery in the world. The vineyard’s transition to exclusively cultivating Riesling grapes in 1720 marked a significant moment in the varietal’s history.
Schloss Johannisberg’s wines are celebrated for their balance, elegance, and ability to age gracefully. The winery’s dedication to Riesling has played a crucial role in the grape’s global popularity today.
4. Barbeito
Barbeito is a name synonymous with the history of Madeira wine, a style celebrated for its ability to age well. Founded in 1946, Barbeito might seem young compared to others on this list, but it has access to some of the oldest and rarest casks of Madeira. Some of these casks date back to the 18th century, linking today’s oenophiles with the tastes of historical figures.
Barbeito is committed to the traditional canteiro method, where the wine is aged in barrels in warm attics, contributing to Madeira’s unique character. Their collection includes vintages that offer an unbroken record of the island’s winemaking excellence.
5. Commandaria
Commandaria, from Cyprus, is known for being the world’s oldest named wine still in production. Records of its production go back to 800 BC, associated with the ancient Greeks and later the Knights Templar. This sweet dessert wine is made from sun-dried grapes Xynisteri and Mavro, creating a unique and intense flavor profile. The wine is named after the commanderies, the territories managed by the Templars, where it was produced. Its enduring presence highlights the timeless appeal of sweet, richly flavored wines.
6. Heidsieck Monopole 1907
Although not the oldest wine by vintage, the story of the Heidsieck Monopole 1907 champagne is legendary among wine enthusiasts. This champagne was destined for the Russian Imperial family in 1916 but was lost at sea when the ship carrying it was sunk. Discovered in 1997 in a shipwreck in the Gulf of Finland, the bottles were remarkably well-preserved thanks to the cold sea conditions.
The champagne, when tasted, was found to retain a remarkable level of complexity and effervescence. Its survival and the subsequent tasting have become a celebrated chapter in the annals of wine history.
7. Tokaji
Tokaji wine, heralded from Hungary, holds a special place in the annals of wine history for its distinctive sweetness and depth. The tradition of Tokaji winemaking dates back to at least the 1500s, with its unique method of using botrytized (nobly rotted) grapes to produce a rich, sweet wine. The wine was a favorite among European nobility, including Louis XIV of France, who famously called it “the king of wines and the wine of kings.”
The region’s volcanic soil and favorable climate contribute to the unique characteristics of Tokaji wines. Today, Tokaji Aszú remains one of the most sought-after sweet wines in the world.
8. Château Haut-Brion
One of the first Bordeaux estates to receive international recognition, Château Haut-Brion’s history as a winery dates back to 1525. Located in the Pessac-Léognan region of France, it is one of the oldest wine estates in Bordeaux and was the first to be mentioned by name in Samuel Pepys’ diary in 1663. The estate is famed for its claret, contributing significantly to the reputation and standards of Bordeaux wines as we know them today.
Château Haut-Brion stands out for its consistent excellence over centuries, making it a benchmark for the wine world. It is also a part of the Premier Cru classification, established in 1855, solidifying its status among the world’s most prestigious wines.
9. Clos de Vougeot
The Clos de Vougeot vineyard in Burgundy, France, has a winemaking history that stretches back to the 12th century. Originally cultivated by Cistercian monks, the vineyard covers over 50 hectares and is enclosed by walls, hence the name “Clos.” It is one of the largest single vineyards in Côte de Nuits entitled to the Grand Cru designation.
Despite the vineyard now being divided among multiple owners, the tradition of producing high-quality red wine predominantly from Pinot Noir grapes continues. Clos de Vougeot symbolizes the enduring legacy of Burgundy’s winemaking excellence and the significance of terroir in producing world-class wines.
FAQs
What makes a wine able to age well?
The ability of a wine to age well depends on several factors including acidity, tannins, alcohol content, and residual sugar. These components can act as preservatives that, over time, contribute to the complexity and depth of a wine’s flavor profile. Proper storage conditions are also critical to ensure a wine ages gracefully.
Can old wines still be consumed?
Yes, many old wines can still be consumed if they’ve been properly stored. However, the taste profile of aged wine differs significantly from that of younger wines. Some ancient wines, especially those sealed and preserved from air exposure, might only offer historical value rather than a pleasant drinking experience.
How do you properly store wine for aging?
To properly store wine for aging, keep it in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature around 55°F (13°C). The bottles should be laid on their sides to keep the cork moist, which prevents it from shrinking and allowing air into the bottle. Vibrations should be minimized, and the humidity level should be kept around 70%.
What is the “oldest” wine ever discovered?
The title of the “oldest” wine discovered goes to the remains found in the Areni-1 cave in Armenia, dating back to 4100 BC. While it’s not a wine that can be tasted today, the findings indicate the production of wine dates back over six millennia, marking the beginnings of winemaking as a part of human culture.
Conclusion
The odyssey of wine through the corridors of history showcases not just an evolution of taste and production techniques but a deeper connection to cultures and civilizations past. The oldest wines in the world are more than just beverages; they are time capsules, holding the mysteries and mastery of ancient viticulturists. They remind us that, despite the passage of time, the human pursuit of crafting and enjoying wine remains unchanged.
As we sip on modern vintages or marvel at the stories of ancient bottles, we partake in a tradition as old as civilization itself, a testament to wine’s enduring appeal and significance throughout human history.