Researchers have found archaeobotanical and archeological evidence that the modern Georgia is where the first grape wine and viniculture were developed. Development of wine in other places is thought to have developed in much later period. However, the earliest proof of the existence of drink made of fermented grape points to China circa 7000 BC. The earliest winery can be found in Areni-1 winery in Armenia, which is thought to be at least 6100 years old. Archeologists published a report in 2003 stating that in China during the first years of the seventh millennium BC, grapes were mixed with rice to make alcoholic beverage.

The development of wine culture in the West can be attributed to the Phoenician people. Phoenicians spread out of Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria and brought with them the tradition of fermenting grapes. Writings by Homer (8th century BC) and Alkman (7th century BC) contain references to wine. There were 36 wine amphoras found in King Tutankhamun;s tomb. Wine traces can also be found in area that is China today, all of which are thought to be originating from either the second or the first millennia BC.

In India, the earliest mention of wines comes from Chanakya’s writings from the late 4th century BC, in which the chief minister of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya condemned the consumption of alcohol. The ancient Romans decided that establishing vineyards in military posts was a better idea because, this way, wine can be produced locally instead of being shipped. Some of these posts later developed into towns famous for their wine production. The Romans also found out that empty wine vessels containing burning sulfur candles result in vessels that are free from vinegar smell and keep them fresh. The Roman Catholic Church allowed use of wine in medieval Europe as wine is required for the Mass.