Favorite Wines by Century

The popularity of wines can vary significantly by century due to factors such as historical events, cultural shifts, and advancements in winemaking techniques. Here is a general overview of some of the most popular wines by century:

1. Pre-17th century:

   • Ancient Wines: In ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, wine production and consumption were common. Wines made from grapes, as well as other fruits, were popular during this time.

2. 17th century:

   • Port Wine: Port wine, a fortified wine from Portugal, gained popularity in the 17th century. British merchants played a significant role in promoting and consuming port, and it became a favorite in England.

3. 18th century:

   • Madeira Wine: Madeira wine, also from Portugal's Madeira Islands, saw its peak in popularity during the 18th century. It was highly favored in the American colonies and Europe.

4. 19th century:

   • Bordeaux Wine: The 19th century saw Bordeaux wines from France becoming increasingly popular and highly sought after. The Bordeaux region gained a reputation for producing high-quality red wines.

5. 20th century:

   • Champagne: Champagne, a sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France, gained immense popularity in the 20th century. It became associated with celebrations and special occasions worldwide.

   • Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon: In the 20th century, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon emerged as two of the most popular and widely planted grape varieties globally. They are now produced in numerous wine regions around the world.

6. 21st century:

   • Rosé Wine: In the 21st century, rosé wine experienced a surge in popularity, becoming a trendy choice for many wine drinkers globally.

   • New World Wines: Wines from "New World" regions, such as the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, gained popularity and recognition for producing high-quality wines with distinctive styles.

It's important to note that the popularity of wines can be influenced by various factors, including changes in taste preferences, marketing efforts, and economic factors. Additionally, wine consumption patterns can differ across regions and countries, leading to variations in the popularity of specific wines.