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Wine as a Bridge Between Cultures

Friday, 17 de November de 2023
The Carrera de Indias: Wine as a Bridge Between Cultures. Presentation of MUCAIN and tasting of three Andalusian wines from Ximénez-Spínola (Jerez) and Pérez Barquero (Montilla-Moriles), paired with 100% Iberian ham (Beher) and Hispania olive oil (Córdoba).
Wine played a significant role in the life and culture of Seville during the 16th and 17th centuries.

At that time, Seville was a major commercial and port hub in Spain due to its strategic location on the Guadalquivir River and its role in trade with the New World. As a result, the city had privileged access to products and goods from around the world, including wine.

Key aspects regarding wine during the 16th and 17th centuries:

Exportation of wines: Spain exported a variety of products to America, and wine was one of the most important. The American territories demanded wine for local consumption, religious services, and other purposes. In particular, wines from Jerez (sherry) and Malaga were highly valued in the American market.

Fortification of wines: To withstand the long sea voyage and changes in temperature, wine was often fortified with brandy or other spirits before shipment. This contributed to the popularity of fortified wines, such as sherry, which had greater durability.

Role of Seville: Seville was the main departure port for the Carrera de Indias and, therefore, a key point in wine exports to America. The city had wineries and warehouses where wines were prepared and stored for shipment. Wine was one of the most notable commodities in transatlantic trade, alongside other products such as gold, silver, and spices.

Cultural exchange: The exportation of wine and other Spanish products to America also influenced the customs and culture of the American territories. Wine became integrated into religious traditions, such as the celebration of Mass, and became an important part of everyday life in the Americas.

Control and regulation: To maintain the quality and authenticity of exported wines, laws and regulations were implemented in Spain. Wines sent to America had to meet certain standards and be properly labelled.

Trade routes: The Carrera de Indias also contributed to the development of maritime trade routes, facilitating the trade of products such as wine. These routes became arteries of economic and cultural exchange between Europe and America.

In summary, wine played an important role in the Carrera de Indias during the 16th and 17th centuries as one of the key products exported from Spain to the American territories. This trade route contributed to the diffusion of wine and its integration into everyday life and traditions in the territories, making it an essential element in transatlantic commerce and cultural interaction between the Old and New Worlds.

XIV Oenological Autumn

From the 3rd to the 23rd of November
25,00
  • Ximénez Spinola (Jeréz)
  • Pérez Barquero (Montilla Moriles)
  • Hispania (Córdoba)
  • Organizer Name: Fundación Caja Rural de Segovia
  • Phone: 921 41 43 22
  • Email: bserrano@fundacioncajaruraldesegovia.es
  • Website: https://fundacioncajaruraldesegovia.es/
  • Type: Special
  • Time: 17 de November de 2023 - 19:00 - 22:00
  • Venue:Segovia
  • Duration:120 minutes

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