Today is National Wine Day! Wine has been an important part of human history and culture for thousands of years. Regardless of whether you prefer red, white, pinot, or cabernet, everyone can appreciate today’s celebration. Archaeologists in Speyer, Germany discovered the oldest bottle of wine in existence while excavating two Roman stone sarcophaguses in 1867. The bottle dates back to at least 325 AD! It is now on display at the History Museum of the Pfalz in Germany. To celebrate National Wine Day, find out if there are any events going on at your local winery or plan your very own wine tasting party for you and your friends, pop the cork, relax and enjoy a refreshing glass of Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot, Shiraz, or Zinfandel in honor of the occasion!
Wine History:
People have been producing wine since at least 6000 B.C. There are dozens of ancient legends about humans who accidentally consumed fermented grapes and became intoxicated, which is probably how wine was first conceived. Eventually, people began experimenting with the fermentation process. The methods for making wine spread from the region of Mesopotamia to Egypt, Greece, Rome, France, Spain, and eventually the New World. Today, over 20 million acres of the earth’s surface are dedicated to growing grapes for wine. Studies have shown that drinking a glass of wine a day improves heart health, reduces forgetfulness, boosts immunity, and increases bone density.
Wine FYI:
*Red vs. white: Red wine is fermented with the grape skin, seeds, and stems. This gives it its color, as well as its “heavier” taste compared with white wine. The seeds and skin contain tannins, which coat your tongue and make it feel dry (similar to a very strong cup of tea).
*Lighter red wines — such as Merlot, Chianti, and Shiraz — have fewer tannins, while more full-bodied red wines, like California Cabernet and French Bordeaux, have more tannins, as well as more alcohol.
*White wine is fermented without the skins, or is made from green grapes, so it’s “lighter” than red wine. Chardonnay, the most popular white wine, can be rich, fruity, and even buttery in flavor. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are lighter and crisper, while Riesling tends to be sweet.
Fun Facts:
- Red wine contains an antioxidant polyphenol called resveratrol that has unique anti-aging properties.
- Red wine can be applied directly on the skin to help reduce the visible signs of aging.
- Resveratrol improves skin tone by promoting the production of collagen.
- Resveratrol lifts the skin and smooth the appearance of expression lines.
- Dermatologists have found that resveratrol helps protect the skin from sun damage, even out skin tone, reduces wrinkles and fine lines.
- Research shows that resveratrol is 17 times greater antioxidant activity than idebenone, which is a well-known powerful anti-aging agent in skin care products.
- Resveratrol can also improve skin’s hydration.
DIY Red Wine Facial Mask
Facial Mask Recipe All skin types (but not for super sensitive):
Yogurt, 1 tsp
Red wine, 1 tsp
Mix together
