Methods in Ancient Wine Archaeology: Scientific Approaches in Roman Contexts

This book is a comprehensive guide to the methods used in research into Roman and ancient wine, covering biomolecular archaeology, chemical analysis, archaeobotany, vineyard and landscape archaeology, and computational and experimental archaeology. It provides a detailed overview of the latest techniques, such as ancient DNA and organic residue analyses, geophysical prospection, multispectral imaging, and spatial and climatic modeling, and includes case studies and broader reflections on the state of the field.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive book offers an accessible guide to the methods that form the current foundation of research into Roman and ancient wine. It brings together a diverse range of modern scientific techniques and interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. The chapters are organized into thematic sections, covering key areas such as biomolecular archaeology, chemical analysis, archaeobotany and palynology, vineyard and landscape archaeology, and computational and experimental archaeology. These sections delve into the latest techniques, including ancient DNA and organic residue analyses, geophysical prospection, multispectral imaging, and spatial and climatic modeling. While the primary focus of the content is on the Roman Mediterranean, the wealth of detailed case studies, methodological outlines, and broader "state of the field" reflections make this book invaluable for researchers working across diverse disciplines, geographies, and chronologies.

In the past, the study of ancient Roman wine has been predominantly influenced by traditional archaeological analyses centered on production facilities and ceramic evidence related to transport. While these architectural and artefact-focused approaches provide a solid foundation for understanding this topic, they lack the necessary depth to address other critical aspects of grape cultivation, wine production, consumption, use, and trade. Recognizing this gap, this book serves as the first comprehensive compendium of its kind, promoting the integration of modern scientific and experimental techniques into archaeological fieldwork, research, and laboratory analysis. By pushing the boundaries of what questions can be explored, this book facilitates interdisciplinary research and serves as a catalyst for future exploration.

The book's chapters are thoughtfully arranged into thematic sections, each addressing a specific aspect of ancient Roman wine research. The first section, "Biomolecular Archaeology and Chemical Analysis," explores the use of advanced techniques to uncover the genetic composition and chemical fingerprints of ancient wine. This includes methods such as DNA extraction, sequencing, and mass spectrometry, which provide valuable insights into the origins, provenance, and authenticity of wine samples. The second section, "Archaeobotany and Palynology," focuses on the study of plant remains found in association with wine production and consumption. This includes the analysis of pollen, spores, and other plant materials to reconstruct the ecological context of vineyards, identify the grape varieties used, and understand the agricultural practices employed. The third section, "Vineyard and Landscape Archaeology," explores the physical remains of vineyards and the surrounding landscapes. This includes the excavation and analysis of archaeological sites, such as wineries, wine presses, and storage facilities, to understand the spatial organization and development of wine production in different regions of the Roman Empire. The fourth section, "Computational and Experimental Archaeology," utilizes advanced computational methods and experimental techniques to simulate and analyze ancient wine production processes. This includes the development of virtual models of vineyards, wine presses, and storage facilities, as well as the use of experimental archaeology to replicate ancient winemaking techniques and evaluate the results.

In addition to these thematic sections, the book includes a wealth of detailed case studies that provide practical examples of the application of these methods. These case studies cover a wide range of topics, including the analysis of wine production facilities in Pompeii, the study of wine consumption in Roman Egypt, and the exploration of trade networks for wine in the Roman Mediterranean. Each case study is accompanied by methodological outlines that provide guidance for researchers interested in replicating these approaches in their own work. Furthermore, the book includes broader "state of the field" reflections that provide insights into the current state of research into ancient Roman wine and offer suggestions for future directions.

One of the key strengths of this book is its interdisciplinary approach. By bringing together experts from various fields, including archaeology, biology, chemistry, and computer science, the book offers a holistic understanding of ancient Roman wine production and consumption. This approach not only enhances our understanding of the historical context but also facilitates the development of new research questions and methodologies.

Another notable feature of this book is its emphasis on the use of modern scientific techniques. These techniques, such as ancient DNA analysis, geophysical prospection, and multispectral imaging, allow researchers to explore previously inaccessible aspects of ancient wine research. By leveraging these tools, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the processes involved in grape cultivation, wine production, and trade, and can develop more accurate models of ancient wine production systems.

In conclusion, this comprehensive book provides an accessible and comprehensive guide to the methods that form the current foundation of research into Roman and ancient wine. By integrating a diverse range of modern scientific techniques and interdisciplinary approaches, it offers a holistic understanding of this important topic and facilitates interdisciplinary research. The detailed case studies, methodological outlines, and broader "state of the field" reflections make this book invaluable for researchers working across diverse disciplines, geographies, and chronologies. As the field of ancient Roman wine research continues to evolve, this book will serve as a valuable resource for scholars and students alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350346642