Celebrating Columbus Day: What did they drink on the voyage over?

Ah, Columbus Day—an Italian American holiday filled with history, exploration, and a good bit of controversy. But instead of diving into debates, let's sail back to 1492, the year of Columbus's famous voyage across the Atlantic. Picture wooden ships, uncharted waters, and a crew with a thirst for adventure. But the real question is, what were they drinking on this treacherous journey? I can tell you It wasn't tropical cocktails or modern mixers.

What Did Columbus and His Crew Drink on Their Voyage?

Wine: The Lifeline of the Voyage

Forget the bottled water—Columbus and his crew relied on wine to survive the long journey. Wine wasn't just a beverage; it was a daily ration essential for keeping the crew hydrated and healthy. In the age of exploration, water stored on ships quickly became contaminated, making wine the safer option.

They weren’t sipping on fine Italian wines like Chianti or Barolo; instead, they had robust reds and whites, often fortified to withstand the harsh conditions at sea. These wines were high in alcohol, designed to last weeks or even months in barrels. Imagine a strong, rustic Spanish red with enough punch to keep spirits high when the going got tough.

Grog: The Sailor’s Secret Weapon

While rum became the preferred spirit for sailors in later centuries, Columbus’s crew had their version of grog—a diluted mixture of spirits, water, and any available flavorings. This early form of grog helped keep scurvy at bay and provided a much-needed morale boost. It wasn't the sophisticated cocktail you’d find in a bar today, but it got the job done.

Sherry: Spain’s Liquid Gold

Sherry was a staple on Spanish ships, including those of Columbus. This fortified wine was not just a luxury but a necessity. High in alcohol, sherry was resistant to spoilage, making it the perfect beverage for long sea voyages. A sip of sherry provided comfort, warmth, and a reminder of home during the toughest days at sea.

Beer: The Low-Alcohol Hydration Hack

In Columbus’s time, beer wasn’t the frothy, cold refreshment we know today. It was a low-alcohol, often unfiltered brew that provided basic hydration when fresh water ran low. Though not glamorous, this humble drink played a critical role in the crew’s daily life, keeping them hydrated in ways that plain water couldn't. Morale of the story is wine and liquor is better in every way imaginable. 

A Taste of History in Every Sip

Columbus and his crew weren’t sipping in style, but their choice of drinks was about more than just quenching thirst. Wine, sherry, grog, and beer were survival tools, offering hydration, health benefits, and a bit of solace on a dangerous and uncertain journey.

So this Columbus Day, as you enjoy your beverage of choice, take a moment to appreciate the explorers who braved the unknown with nothing but the basics—and maybe a barrel of sherry to keep them going. And if you’re feeling inspired, why not stop by Arthur Cantina? While we can’t offer you a sip of history straight from Columbus’s voyage, we do have a curated selection of rare wines and spirits that celebrate the adventurous spirit of exploration. Cheers to Columbus, America, Italy, the open sea, and the timeless power of a good drink.