History of packaging

The simplest solution for storing wine in ancient times was to use animal hide, like the Roman legions have used, where soldiers were not allowed to drink water, when serving beyond the limes. Pithos was a large pot used in ancient times, in the Mediterranean region, especially in Crete. Its walls were thick and had a flat bottom, like an amphora. Its surface was often painted in vivid colours. It was quite difficult to transport, but protected wine effectively. Amphora was a similar piece of pottery with a capacity of 5-50 litres, but had a slimmer shape and was sometimes also made from silver, bronze or gold. Wooden barrels were probably first made by the Galls. They are much more practical for transporting wine and also play a positive role in fermentation. However, they cannot be used to serve the consumer. The history of glass bottles started with the invention of glass blowing in Syria, around 100 BC. As a result of developing technology, coloured glass had appeared later and it was subsequently found to be better for storing wine. Gradually, certain shapes began to be linked to certain wine producing regions like Bordeaux or Riesling.