The dominant grape during Jesus’ time was an ancestor of today’s syrah, originating from Persia. The wine likely consumed at the last supper and the wedding at Cana, where Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine (John 2:1-12, Elle’s favorite Bible story), was probably similar to a modern organic and minimally-intervened wine made from syrah.
Back then, wine was produced in heated vats, imparting a smoky flavor and a very dark color. It was dense and full-bodied, with a short aging period and an alcohol content of about 14 percent. Heavy stuff!
Although none of our wines are made with syrah grapes, Good Clean Wine is made in Italy, so we do get to raise a glass to Elle's favorite painting in the entire world, which is The Wedding Feast at Cana, painted by Paolo Veronese. It is the largest painting in the Louvre, and hangs directly across from the tiny Mona Lisa. It depicts the famous water-into-wine wedding.
The closest thing we have to wine from ancient times is our big, bold Good Clean Cabernet. Our cab is crafted in the old-world way by grape growers and winemakers using little to no intervention and traditions passed down through generations. They emphasize terroir and employ a combination of organic, biodynamic, and biodiverse farming and winemaking processes to cultivate healthy cabernet grapes. The winemaking process reflects the cultural and historical traditions of Tuscany.
Rich, bold, and full-bodied, Good Clean Cabernet is dark ruby red with flavors of black currant, smoky sweet tobacco, and subtle spice. It is un-oaked, giving it a clean, fresh taste that you most likely would not have found during Jesus' time.
The story of the wedding at Cana:
When the wine ran out, Jesus' mother said to him, “They have no wine.” Jesus replied, “Woman, what does this have to do with me?” His mother instructed the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Jesus told them, “Fill the jars with water.” Once filled to the brim, he said, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the feast.” The master tasted the water turned into wine, not knowing its source. He praised the bridegroom, saying, “Everyone serves the good wine first, but you have kept the good wine until now.” This showcased Jesus’ ability to perform miracles.
Every day we celebrate the miracle that is wine. Cheers!
