Caucasus: Difference between revisions
Created page with "'''Caucasus''' (/ˈkɔːkəsəs/) is a geographical region situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, recognised as one of the earliest cradles of wine production. Archaeological and historical evidence indicates that vine cultivation and winemaking were established here thousands of years ago, making the Caucasus central to the origins of viticulture.<ref>McGovern, ''Ancient Wine: The Search for the Origins of Viniculture'', Princeton University..." |
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Latest revision as of 15:33, 21 August 2025
Caucasus (/ˈkɔːkəsəs/) is a geographical region situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, recognised as one of the earliest cradles of wine production. Archaeological and historical evidence indicates that vine cultivation and winemaking were established here thousands of years ago, making the Caucasus central to the origins of viticulture.[1]
Background
The Caucasus encompasses modern-day Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and parts of southern Russia. It has been historically significant in the domestication of the Vitis vinifera grape, with evidence of wine jars and residue dating back to the Neolithic period.[2] Georgia in particular is often described as the "birthplace of wine", supported by both archaeological finds and enduring cultural traditions.[3]
Characteristics
The region's viticultural importance stems from its diverse landscapes, ranging from high mountain slopes to fertile river valleys. This geographic variation has created a wide range of microclimates suitable for grape cultivation. The Caucasus is also home to an extraordinary number of indigenous grape varieties, many of which are not found outside the region.[4] This biodiversity has played a crucial role in shaping the genetic pool of cultivated vines across the Old World.
Use in winemaking
Winemaking traditions in the Caucasus are deeply tied to cultural identity. In Georgia, the use of qvevri — large clay vessels buried underground — remains a defining feature of the region’s viticulture and has been recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.[5] Armenia has similarly preserved ancient practices while also developing modern wineries that contribute to its international reputation. Today, wines from the Caucasus are known for combining ancient techniques with contemporary methods, contributing to renewed global interest in the region’s wine culture.
See also
References
- ↑ McGovern, Ancient Wine: The Search for the Origins of Viniculture, Princeton University Press, 2003.
- ↑ Lordkipanidze, The Vine and Wine in the Caucasus, Tbilisi University Press, 1989 (Georgian original).
- ↑ Unwin, Wine and the Vine: An Historical Geography of Viticulture and the Wine Trade, Routledge, 1991.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015.
- ↑ McGovern, Ancient Wine: The Search for the Origins of Viniculture, Princeton University Press, 2003.