Pliny the Elder's Fascination with Wine: An Exploration of "Natural History
Pliny the Elder
Pliny was born in 23 AD and died in 79 AD. Not much is known about his early life. He served as a naval commander in the Roman army and later became a member of the Roman Senate.
Pliny the Elder, a renowned Roman scholar born in 23 CE in what is now Como, Italy, left an indelible mark on the world through his extensive writings. His most famous work, "Naturalis Historia" (Natural History), covers many topics, with two books dedicated to his fascination with wine.
This blog post will explore the wine-related topics in Books 14 and 23 of Pliny's masterpiece.
Book 14: The Natural History of the Vine
1. Varieties of Grapevines Pliny meticulously describes different types of grapevines, highlighting their unique characteristics and the regions where they thrive best. From the renowned vines of Italy to the celebrated varieties of Greece and Gaul (modern-day France), Pliny's observations provide a comprehensive look at viticulture in the ancient world.
2. Cultivation Techniques Pliny offers detailed guidance on the best practices for planting, pruning and caring for grapevines. He emphasizes the importance of soil types, noting how they impact the quality of the grapes. His insights into vineyard management reflect a deep understanding of agricultural science.
3. Wine Production Pliny elaborately covers turning grapes into wine. He explains the steps of harvesting, pressing, and fermenting grapes, providing a glimpse into the winemaking techniques of ancient Rome. Pliny also discusses different methods of storing and aging wine, including using amphorae (large ceramic vessels) and barrels.
4. Types of Wine Pliny's classification of wines is extensive. He describes wines from various regions, special wines like those made from dried grapes (passum), and even spiced wines. His detailed accounts offer a window into the diverse wine culture of his time.
5. Qualities of Good Wine: What makes a good wine? Pliny outlines the characteristics of high-quality wine, such as clarity, color, and taste. He also explores factors that affect wine quality, including climate, soil, and vineyard practices.
Book 23: The Medicinal Uses of Wine
1. Wine as Medicine Pliny's exploration of wine extends beyond its enjoyment as a beverage. He delves into the medicinal properties of wine, describing how different types can be used to treat various ailments. His remedies include using wine for digestive issues, fevers, and wounds.
2. Wine and Health Wine consumption's health benefits and potential harms are thoroughly discussed. Pliny advocates for moderate drinking, highlighting its positive effects on health. His balanced perspective provides valuable insights into the ancient understanding of wine and wellness.
3. Specific Medicinal Wines Pliny describes the preparation and use of specific medicinal wines infused with herbs and other ingredients. These concoctions were tailored to treat particular conditions, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient Roman medicine.
Memorable Wine Quotes from "Naturalis Historia
On the Importance of Wine:
"Wine is one of the most useful and necessary things to mankind, and at the same time one of the most dangerous gifts of Nature."
On the Variety of Grapes:
"There is no country that has produced such a variety of wines as Italy, each possessing its own distinctive excellence."
On the Influence of Terroir:
"The same vine will vary in quality according to the nature of the soil, the aspect of the vineyard, and the climate of the country."
On Wine as a Remedy:
"Wine taken in moderation, sharpens the wit, it warms the veins, it strengthens the stomach, and encourages the appetite."
On the Healing Properties of Wine:
"Wine, especially, of the best quality, is useful for wounds and injuries, for the virtue of wine is to bind, to close up, and to heal."
On Wine and Health:
"It is a fact beyond question, that moderate use of wine is beneficial to the health of mankind."
On the Variety of Wines:
"The diversity of wines is remarkable; the diversity not only between regions but even between vineyards that are quite close to each other."
On the Cultural Importance of Wine:
"Indeed, no other liquid has played such a significant role in the customs and ceremonies of mankind."
Conclusion
Pliny the Elder's "Naturalis Historia" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of wine in ancient Rome. His detailed accounts of grapevines, cultivation techniques, wine production, and the medicinal uses of wine reveal a deep appreciation for this vital aspect of Roman culture. By exploring Pliny's writings, we gain historical knowledge and a greater appreciation for the enduring legacy of wine.
Pliny's "Naturalis Historia" has been translated and edited in several comprehensive volumes for those interested in further reading.
Notable translations include:
Pliny the Elder. Natural History. Translated by H. Rackham, W.H.S. Jones, and D.E. Eichholz. Loeb Classical Library, Harvard University Press, 1938-1963.
Pliny the Elder. Natural History: A Selection. Translated by John F. Healy. Penguin Classics, 1991.
