The 12 Oldest Wineries in the World

From the religious rites of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations to our modern dining tables, wine has been an integral part of human life for around 8,000 years. Archaeological discoveries have consistently highlighted wine's presence throughout the millennia. However, for wine to exist, wineries are essential.

The oldest winery on record, according to archaeologists, is located in Armenia and dates back at least 6,000 years, discovered within a large cave.

Yet, there are also more recent wineries with ancient histories that attest to the charm and significance of winemaking for humanity.

This fascinating journey takes us through castles and cultural legacies, distinct lands, and the extensive labor of humans to cultivate and produce wine. It's an activity embraced by entire families, many of whom have been in the business for generations and centuries.

Join us on a time-travel adventure to visit the wineries that have cultivated and protected winemaking traditions through the ages.

Areni I, Armenia, 4100 B.C.

The world's oldest winery is located in Armenia, in a deep cave known as Areni I, situated in the eponymous village. Discovered in 2007, this site underscores the importance of wine in religious ceremonies.

Schloss Johannisberg, Germany, 817 A.D.

Germany might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it is home to one of the oldest wineries. The first references to Riesling vineyards here were documented by Louis the Pious, King of the Franks and Aquitaine. Thomas Jefferson was the first American to visit this legendary site.

Staffelter Hof, Germany, 862 A.D.

This winery was originally linked to a Belgian convent, initially producing wine to supply the Moselle Valley monastery. Historical documents attest that the abbey's lands were donated by King Lothair, Charlemagne's great-grandson.

Château de Goulaine, France, 1000 A.D.

France, the world's most famous wine producer, boasts an ancient winery in the Loire Valley, the oldest family-run winery. Known for its Vouvray and Muscat wines, the Château has hosted notable guests, including pianist Duke Ellington.

Barone Ricasoli, Italy, 1141 A.D.

This Italian estate is one of the world's foremost wine producers, credited with creating the renowned Chianti Classico. Barone Ricasoli is the fourth oldest company globally, with well-documented ancient roots. The estate spans 1,200 hectares, including 240 hectares of vineyards and 26 of olive groves surrounding the Brolio castle within Gaiole in Chianti's boundaries.

Schloss Vollrads, Germany, 1211 A.D.

With over 800 years of wine cultivation and sales, this winery's history nearly vanished due to inheritance challenges. Fortunately, in 1997, the oenologist Dr. Rowald Hepp took over, restoring the castle and cultural heritage. In 2018, Ralf Bengel succeeded Hepp. Riesling is the estate's signature variety.

Château Mont-Redon, France, 1344 A.D.

Initially belonging to the Pope, Joseph Ignace d'Astier acquired these recognized vineyards. Over the years, the estate expanded, surviving vine destruction by phylloxera. Today, it produces wines under the three southern Rhône Valley appellations: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Lirac, and Côtes du Rhône.

Marchesi Antinori, Italy, 1385 A.D.

In Tuscany, the Antinori family represents a historic name in wine and family heritage. Production began in 1385 with Giovanni di Piero Antinori, and since then, 26 generations have upheld the family's winemaking legacy, producing Chianti, Bolgheri, Pinot Nero, and many others across Umbria and Tuscany.

Codorníu, Spain, 1551 A.D.

One of Spain's oldest family businesses, Codorníu was founded by Jaume Codorníu and later strengthened by merging with the Raventós family, who created cava in 1872. Declared a National Historical Monument by King Juan Carlos, it is among the world's top three cava producers, with an annual output of 60 million bottles.

Fonjallaz, Switzerland, 1552 A.D.

Wine production in Lavaux began with Cistercian monks in the Middle Ages. The vineyards, set on steep terraces and stone walls, are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Patrick Fonjallaz, the thirteenth generation, currently runs Switzerland's oldest family winery.

Casa Madero, Mexico, 1597 A.D.

The oldest winery in the Americas, Casa Madero, was established by Jesuits in the Parras Valley. They created the first 100% American wine using wild vines from the unknown continent. Today, Hacienda San Lorenzo, known as Casa Madero, is Mexico's most awarded winery, with over 1,000 medals.

Rustenberg, South Africa, 1682 A.D.

Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's primary wine regions, is home to Rustenberg, the oldest winery there. With ever-growing wine production potential, the Barlow family, who purchased it in 1941, still runs the winery. Notable wines include Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

This journey through the world's oldest wineries not only highlights the enduring significance of winemaking but also the dedication and passion passed down through generations, preserving this ancient art form.