When did winemaking begin? The Mesopotamians were credited with producing the first wines in 6000 B.C.
How many varieties of wine grapes exist in the world today? Over 10,000!
The Red Wines that Make up the Big Eight are: Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz.
The Big Eight White Wines include: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio.
One acre of land averages – Five tons of grapes (10,000 pounds)
One barrel of wine contains – 740 pounds of grapes
One case of wine contains – 30 pounds of grapes
One 750 ml bottle of wine contains – 600 to 800 (2.4 pounds) grapes
A bottle by any other name is…
Split holds 375 millilitres or half a standard bottle
Bottle holds 750 ml of wine (also called a “fifth”)
Magnum holds same as 2 bottles, or 1.5 litres
Double Magnum equals 4 bottles, or 3 litres
Jeroboam equals 6 bottles for wine or 4 bottles for sparkling wine
Imperial equals 8 bottles, or 6 litres
Salamanzar equals 12 bottles (one case), or 9 litres
Balthazar equals 16 bottles, or 12 litres
Nebuchadnezzar holds same as 20 bottles, or 15 litres
Check out the wonderful Yarra Valley Winery Tour that takes you through the scenic Yarra Valley stopping at the best wineries to try a large variety of wines including the big 8! Enjoy a fabulous vineyard lunch experience at the well known Train Trak Vineyard and finish the day at the famous Domaine Chandon relaxing with a glass of Sparkling….a really great day out. Please click on this link to see what your tour entails – Yarra Valley Winery Tour Public