Recent analyses of ancient artifacts from the ruins of Troy reveal that wine consumption was not reserved for the elite, as previously thought, but was enjoyed by everyday citizens as well. This new understanding is based on findings published in the American Journal of Archaeology, which highlight the discovery of depas goblets—two-handled drinking vessels dating back to 2500-2000 BCE.

Excavated by Heinrich Schliemann over 150 years ago in present-day Hisarlik, Turkey, these goblets were long believed to be exclusive to communal celebrations among the wealthy. The study utilized modern chemical analysis techniques to analyze samples from two vessel fragments. Notably, researchers found molecular evidence indicating that wine, rather than just grape juice, was stored and served in these goblets. The acids identified (succinic and pyruvic) are byproducts of grape fermentation, confirming the goblets were indeed used for drinking wine.

In addition to the goblets found in palatial and sacred contexts, similar analyses of common Trojan drinking vessels discovered outside central complexes confirmed that wine was also available to the lower classes. The findings underscore that wine drinking had a broader cultural significance in Troy and was part of daily life for many, not just an exclusive pleasure of the gods and heroes depicted in Homer’s The Iliad. Thus, it can be concluded that the historical narrative and depiction of social customs in ancient Troy included communal wine-drinking practices enjoyed by all classes of society.

For further insights and details from the study, articles can be found in the American Journal of Archaeology and through the University of Tübingen.