From the Palatine Hill to the Atlantic coast, the Romans didn’t just expand their empire; they spread vines that are integral to modern winemaking. The tale of wine in Europe is intricately linked to Roman history. Roman soldiers carried vine cuttings with them as they conquered new territories, planting grapes wherever they established camps, which laid the foundation for today’s wine routes and regions.

Wine held a special place in Roman society; it was used in sacrifices to Bacchus, the god of wine, and served at daily meals. This staple not only sustained the Romans but also became a cultural connector across the empire. Amphorae containing wine were transported across the Mediterranean, and later, barrels rolled down the Via Appia.

The Romans were pioneers in winemaking literature, with works like Columella’s De Re Rustica and Pliny the Elder’s Naturalis Historia, which function as ancient guides to viticulture, covering topics from pruning to soil management. They pioneered techniques such as blending and aging wines and established a system for classifying vineyards by quality, still relevant in today’s cru and DOC systems.

A noteworthy remnant of Roman winemaking is Monte Testaccio in Rome, an artificial hill made from discarded amphorae that once transported wine and olive oil. This site is a testament to the organized wine trade during the empire, each amphora acting like a modern shipping label, marked with details about origin and merchant codes.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the Trastevere district in Rome became known for its accessible wine culture, where commoners and craftsmen enjoyed its bounty. This area is still home to historic winemaking guilds, such as the vignaioli. In contrast, the affluent enjoyed opulent wine-filled banquets, like those held in the Piazza Farnese.

Today, while the central parts of Rome have seen vines disappear, they are beginning to reappear in the surrounding Lazio region. The Vigna Barberini, located on the Palatine Hill, showcases this resurgence. Protected within the Archaeological Park of the Colosseum, this vineyard produces Bellone wine in collaboration with the Lazio winery Cincinnato. Although symbolic, it reflects the enduring connection between Rome and its vinous heritage.

Across Europe, remnants of Roman winemaking, such as amphorae and frescoes, continue to surface, reinforcing the idea that Roman influence on the wine industry created a legacy that endures to this day. Exploring the vineyard on Palatine Hill is a step back in time, illustrating how the Romans forged a cultural connection through wine that has shaped landscapes and traditions for centuries.