History of Wine in Timeline

Wine is an alcoholic beverage primarily produced by fermenting fruit, most commonly grapes. The fermentation process involves yeast converting sugars in the fruit into ethanol and carbon dioxide. While grapes are the most typical base, wine can also be made from other fruits such as plums, cherries, pomegranates, blueberries, currants, and elderberries.

1979: Islamic Revolution in Iran

Following the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, the country's previously thriving wine industry disappeared due to the prohibition of alcoholic drinks under most interpretations of Islamic law.

2002: Germany wine classification scheme

In 2002, Germany created a wine classification scheme similar to those of France and Portugal, although it has not yet achieved the same level of authority.

2003: Château d'Yquem Vertical Sold for $1.5 Million

In 2003, a Château d'Yquem 135-year vertical, which included every vintage from 1860 to 2003, was sold for $1.5 million.

2003: Grape and rice fermented drinks possibility

In 2003, a report by archaeologists suggested that grapes were possibly mixed with rice to create fermented drinks in ancient China during the early seventh millennium BCE.

2007: UK Largest Wine Importer

In 2007, the UK was the world's largest importer of wine.

2016: Ethanol Consumption and Health

In 2016, a systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that moderate ethanol consumption does not provide a mortality benefit compared to lifetime abstention. Some studies also suggest that any level of ethanol consumption increases the risk of cancer and all-cause mortality.