Grapes, the pioneers of fruit domestication: How ancient wine shaped human civilization
Famed Greek comedy writer, Aristophanes, is quoted as stating, "hand me a quick cup of wine so that I can use it to lubricate my mind and utter something intelligent". Wine remains the world's most favored alcoholic beverage, with scientific conjecture proposing it played a fundamental role in the establishment of human civilization - a theory for which they hold substantial evidence.
2:47 PM EST, December 26, 2023
A multinational research ensemble composed of members from 17 countries embarked on a project to examine the genomes of thousands of standout grapes, collected from regions ranging from the Iberian Peninsula to Japan. Their efforts led to the conclusion that grapes were already in cultivation 11,000 years ago, suggesting their status as the most important plant in human history.
The significance of the vine in human history
Raisins, wine vinegar, grape seed oil, and naturally, wine - all acknowledged products dating back several millennia and are derived from a common origin, the grapevine. Findings by the team of scientists who conducted a thorough investigation of the grapevine genome suggest it was the first plant to undergo domestication at the hands of humans. Researchers speculate the practice began as far back as 11,000 years ago. "The grapevine is likely the pioneer fruit plant domesticated by humans. Our scientific collaboration is a testament to the remarkable achievements we're capable of, mirroring the feats of ancient peoples," commented Wei Chen, one of the study's co-authors.
Wine production utilizes the Vitis vinifera variety of grapevine which further subdivides into multiple subtypes, including but not limited to merlot, pinot noir, and riesling - terms well-known amongst wine connoisseurs. This, Wei Chen claims, showcases the extraordinary regard held for this plant. "We don't mirror such practices with wheat or barley," he added.
What was the taste of wine in ancient times?
The research project examined grape cultivars used in antiquity, each prominently smaller than modern grape varieties, and resulting in a distinctive bitter wine when processed. It can be inferred that the taste of wines enjoyed by ancient civilizations differed significantly from the versions we imbibe today.
Determining the exact timeline of the inception of wine production is an area yet to be clarified by scientific research. However, it is a known fact that the origin of this beverage predates even the invention of the wheel. Archaeological evidence in Georgia has uncovered remains of a vessel designed for wine production, believed to date back to sometime between 8000 and 4000 BC.
