Ancient Cellar Discovered by Archaeologists Contains 3,700-Year-Old Wine

Nov 23, 2013 10:06 AM EST | Matt Mercuro

An ancient wine cellar, believed to be well over 3,700-years-old, has been discovered in Israel by a team of U.S. and Israeli archaeologists.

The cellar was found among the ruins in a palace in Tel Kabri, Israel, according to the Daily Mail. It could date back to around 4,000 years ago, but experts aren't sure yet.

In the cellar were 40 amphorae-like jars, which each held over 50 liters of wine. The residue left inside offers a clue as to when the wine was likely enjoyed last.

Professor Eric Cline, chair of the department of classical and near eastern languages and civilizations at George Washington University said his team first found a three foot long jug, which they called "Bessie."

"We dug and dug, and all of a sudden, Bessie's friends started appearing-five, 10, 15, ultimately 40 jars packed in a 15-by-25-foot storage room," said Cline.

The archaeologists believe some 2,000 liters of wine was made by ancient Canaanites back in 1,700 B.C.

The residue from the jars suggests they once contained both red and white wine, made with additives like mint, honey, and cinnamon, according to the Daily Mail.

"This is a hugely significant discovery - it's a wine cellar that, to our knowledge, is largely unmatched in age and size," said Cline.

In comparison, the cellar would be hold the equivalent of 3,000 of today's red and white wine bottles, according to the Daily Mail.

The additives found were believed to be there to preserve the wine, which was likely a "luxurious drink" back then saved for special occasions.

The group had been digging since 2005 at the site. 

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