National Red Wine Day is celebrated every year on August 28th, a special day for wine lovers and enthusiasts of wine culture. This day is not only to celebrate the taste of red wine but also an opportunity to remember its historical and cultural significance. On this day, people enjoy a glass of red wine with their family and friends, learn about the history of wine, and try different types of wine.
History of Red Wine
The history of red wine dates back thousands of years. Historians believe that around 7000 BC, people in the Henan province of China were the first to successfully create a beverage similar to red wine. This drink was prepared from wild grapes, honey, rice, and hawthorn fruit. It was stored in pottery, and fermented with the help of yeast present on the grape skins.
Subsequently, a discovery in Armenia in 2007 revealed the world's first winery, believed to be around 6100 BC. This archaeological find was made in a cave and discovered by archaeologists from Armenia and Ireland.
Since ancient times, red wine has been part of various cultures. In civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, it was not only a drink but also part of social and religious rituals. Over time, grape cultivation and winemaking techniques improved, and red wine today is not just a beverage, but a symbol of transformation, joy, friendship, and life.
Establishment of National Red Wine Day
National Red Wine Day was founded in 2014 by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. The purpose of this day is to celebrate the beauty and diversity of red wine. This day is specifically celebrated at the end of August, when grapes begin to ripen and autumn begins.
Historical Timeline of Red Wine
- 6000 BC: Red wine made in the South Caucasus (Georgia). People made wine by burying grape juice in the ground during winter.
- 3100 BC: Winemaking from grapes began in ancient Egypt. It was considered similar to blood and was associated with many religious beliefs.
- 71 AD: First written confirmation of wine in Bordeaux, France. Pliny the Elder provided information about the grapes and wine of this region.
- 1619 AD: French wine production technology was brought to Virginia, America.
- 2014 AD: National Red Wine Day was first established and celebrated.
Ways to Celebrate National Red Wine Day
Celebrating National Red Wine Day is easy and enjoyable. You can make the experience even more special by celebrating it in different ways.
1. Taste Red Wine
Enjoy a glass of red wine on this day. Whether it's dinner at home with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon at a restaurant, this is an opportunity to honor the taste of red wine.
2. Take a Wine Tour or Tasting
If possible, travel to wine country. Experiencing grape cultivation and wine tasting in places like Texas Hill Country, Arizona's Verde Valley, or Virginia is extremely interesting. Locations like Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and Santa Barbara County in California are heaven for wine lovers.
3. Learn About and Try Different Types of Red Wine
There are different varieties of red wine. The taste of each wine and the experience of pairing it with food is different.
- Merlot: This is the second most planted grape variety in the world. Its taste is usually sweet and fruit-filled. Merlot can be served with chicken, duck, or light meats.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: The most planted grape variety. Almost everyone likes it and it goes perfectly with meat.
- Malbec: Originally a French grape variety, but today it is mostly produced in Argentina. Its taste is deep purple and slightly smoky. It pairs well with meat and spicy food.
- Pinot Noir: A light and gentle wine with a hint of berry flavor. It goes well with fish and light dishes.
4. Create a Red Wine Themed Music Playlist
The combination of wine and music makes the experience even sweeter. You can include some red wine-themed songs in your playlist.
National Red Wine Day gives us an opportunity to remember the taste, history, and cultural significance of red wine. This day is not only a celebration for wine lovers but also inspires us to appreciate its diversity and art. Enjoying it in a glass, doing wine tasting, and learning about different types of wine makes this experience even more special. This day is a symbol of celebrating friendship, joy, and life.
