The tablets we have obtained from the Hittites, who left deep traces in the Anatolian lands, are of great value in terms of understanding the place of viticulture and wine in this ancient civilization. Who knows, the results we obtained from the deciphered and interpreted parts of the tablets will reveal many things that we do not know yet, with the studies that are still ongoing and will continue for a long time.

Based on the interpretation of the surviving tablets by experts, we know that the Hittites' interest in wine was both because the clergy gave it a sacred meaning in religious ceremonies and because it was considered the exclusive drink of the Hittite royal family and their circle. But we understand from the contents of the new tablets that the public was also very interested in wine.

Records show that the funeral ceremonies of the Hittite rulers lasted 12 days and that each day had a different main title during this period. Although the ninth day of the mourning period is devoted to offerings and invocations related to agriculture, and viticulture is in principle included in this scope, the ritual that took place on the last day shows how wine and vines carry a different meaning. In twelveth day's ceremonies, just like today's Old Vine concept which has a maternal feature, the symbol of fertility is expressed with a young vine shoot: A fresh shoot cut from the vine is attached to the fabrics surrounding the dead and so it is believed that the deceased does not suffer from trouble in its journey after death.

In another Hittite ritual, the sexual organ of a female pig is buried in the vineyard to increase the fertility of vineyards that cannot reach the desired fertility, and the gods are asked for help in revitalizing the soil.

We know that the title of GAL-GESTİN, which we encounter in the Hittite records, was assumed by the elites who were responsible for the management of the Hittite armies and were selected from among the members of the ruling family. But this title has another meaning and authority. This position, which means 'Chief of Wine' in the Hittite language, ensures and enforces the security and efficiency of the vineyards through laws, and also manages the process of meeting both religious ceremonies and the daily wine needs of the people.

Of course, the title of 'Master of Wine', which we compared in today's title, is not similar to the title of managing armies. But when we look at the historical importance of wine in the Hittite civilization, it is impossible not to be surprised that one of the primary responsibilities of the political and military administrators at the highest levels of the administrative power was to ensure the peace and order of the vineyards, to monitor productivity and to ensure that production continued without interruption

This blog is based on the information of Leonardo Massi, Carlo Corti and Belkis Dinçol, who are competent experts in their fields. Wine history is an area that does not receive the attention it deserves in our country. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their academic studies, which will serve as a resource for future wine history works. Cheers!