Ancient history

What types of wine did the Romans drink?

The Romans were very fond of wine and produced a wide variety of wines, using different grape varieties and fermentation techniques. Here are some of the most common types of wine that the Romans drank:

1. Falernum: This was one of the most famous and highly prized wines in ancient Rome. It was produced in the Campania region of Italy, using the Aglianico and Piedirosso grape varieties. Falernum was known for its intense flavor and aroma and was often aged for several years before drinking.

2. Caecuban: Another renowned Roman wine, Caecuban was produced in the Lazio region of Italy. It was made with the Trebbiano and Sangiovese grape varieties and was considered a high-quality wine, often reserved for special occasions. Caecuban was known for its deep red color and robust, full-bodied flavor.

3. Massican: This wine was produced in the Campania region of Italy and was made with the Falanghina grape variety. Massican was a light, fruity wine with a slightly acidic taste and was often enjoyed during meals.

4. Albanum: This wine was produced in the Alban Hills region of Italy, just outside of Rome. It was made with a blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia Bianca grape varieties and was known for its delicate, floral aroma and slightly sweet flavor. Albanum was often consumed chilled as a refreshing summertime drink.

5. Sabinum: This wine was produced in the Sabine Hills region of Italy, northeast of Rome. It was made with a blend of Trebbiano and Sangiovese grape varieties and was known for its rustic, earthy flavor and high tannin content. Sabinum was often aged for several years to mellow its tannins.

6. Setinum: This wine was produced in the Sezze region of Italy, southeast of Rome. It was made with the Moscato di Terracina grape variety and was known for its intense sweetness and floral aroma. Setinum was often served as a dessert wine or used to make mulled wine.

These are just a few examples of the many wines that the Romans enjoyed. They had a sophisticated wine culture and valued wine for both its taste and its social and ceremonial importance.