Aged In Barrels For 5000 Years.

Not only did the pharaohs of ancient Egypt like their vino, they apparently liked to spike it with some herbs.

A recent report published by archaeologists in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveal analysis of residues found in wine jars left in the tomb of Scorpion 1, who is believed to be the first pharaoh. Herbs found included mint, sage, coriander and  savory, blue tansy.  I have no idea what savory, blue tansy is, but apparently you can buy it here on Ebay.

No one can be sure as to why the herbs were mixed with the wine, but chances are it was for medicinal purposes.  According to one of the articles, “Medicinal use of wine could be expected because of the well-established practice of medicine in ancient Egypt.”  Another theory is that the herbs were added to enhance the flavor or to cover up defects.

Read more here at Forbes.com and Associated Press.