is, Arguably one of the oldest alcoholic beverages ever consumed, wine has played a crucial role in social, cultural, and religious functions for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations like Egypt, Greece, and Rome. While it is hard to establish a specific date or origin of wine, decades-old made-up holidays like National Wine Day offer an opportunity to not just celebrate the beverage, but its historic significance as well.
Each year, on May 25th, the world comes together in what has become an unofficial holiday to celebrate all types of wine – red, white, rose, and sparkling – in their colors, flavors, and nuances.
While an American holiday called National Wine Day may have been trademarked in 2009 by a California-based digital marketing agency, it has quickly evolved into a global phenomenon to celebrate the art of wine-making and the people that make it possible.
Origins Of National Wine Day
As mentioned, the origins of wine-making date as far back as ancient civilization. Historians believe that the first wine grapes were fermented in what is now known as Georgia, almost 8,000 years ago. Throughout centuries since, wine has evolved from a basic homemade drink to a highly sophisticated industry with worldwide influence. It’s no surprise then that National Wine Day started in the United States, one of the world’s leading countries in wine consumption, production, and exportation. In 2009, a digital marketing agency called Estate Creation announced National Wine Day. The origins and reasoning behind this declaration are not entirely clear, but one could assume that it was to create awareness of their clients’ wineries and tasting rooms. Regardless, National Wine Day gained a life of its own and spread like wildfire, becoming an international tradition.
Cultural Significance Of Wine
Wine has played a vital role in human culture for centuries, closely tied to social and religious occasions. Examples of how wine has influenced culture appear throughout history, starting with the Greeks and Romans using wine to celebrate their gods. In the Bible, numerous stories showcase wine’s significance, from Jesus’ first miracle of turning water into wine at a wedding party to the last supper. Wine has also played significant roles in literature, films, and art, serving as a symbol of life, death, celebration, temptation, and romance, among others. It has become a beverage associated with refinement, sophistication, and elegance. And as wine culture continues to evolve, it remains an important element of our social lives, serving as an excuse for a gathering among friends, the perfect accompaniment to a meal, or a toast to a special occasion.
Different Types Of Wines
Hundreds, if not thousands, of grape varieties exist worldwide, with each producing unique wine characteristics – aroma, taste, and color. Wine lovers typically categorize wine into six main types: red, white, rose, sparkling, fortified and dessert. The following is a brief overview of each type:
Red Wine: Made from black grapes, red wines get their color from grape skin. It’s typically full-bodied, with tannins that create a dry, puckering sensation in the mouth. Examples include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir.
White Wine: Made from white or pale grapes, white wines’ light color is due to the juice and not the skin. White wines are often drier and crisper than red wine, with less tannins. Examples include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Grigio.
Rose Wine: Rosa wine is made from different grape varieties that have a pink or light red color. It’s typically sweet or fruity and pairs well with grilled or fried foods. Examples include Zinfandel, Grenache, and Sangria.
Sparkling Wine: Sparkling wine is usually white or Rosa and contains carbon dioxide that creates bubbles in the wine. Champagne is probably the best-known sparkling wine.
Fortified Wine: Fortified wine has grape spirit or brandy added to it to increase alcohol levels. Examples include Port and Sherry.
Dessert Wine: Dessert wine is a sweet wine that typically accompanies dessert or can serve as dessert. Examples include Muscat, Tokaji, and Ice Wine.
How To Observe National Wine Day
While you don’t need to be a wine expert to celebrate National Wine Day, there are some ways to make the most out of this holiday. Here are a few insider tips:
1. Sample different types of wine
Dare to broaden your wine horizons by sampling different types of wine – maybe try a red or sparkling wine, something out of your usual comfort zone.
2. Enjoy wines with food
Part of the wine experience is pairing it with great foods, whether it’s Italian dishes, cheese, or chocolates.
3. Explore new wine regions
Try exploring new wine regions, such as Napa Valley, Tuscany, or Bordeaux, to experience their unique taste and culture.
4. Take a winery tour
Take a tour of a local winery to gain a better understanding of how wine is made and the people who make it.