Was it poisoned wine that killed Alexander?

A leading toxicologist has said that Alexander the Great, may have died after drinking wine made from a poisonous plant that would have caused a slow and painful death. The mystery of why the Greek King of Macedon, ruler of the largest empire in the ancient world, died at just 32 has baffled historians and scientists for over 2000 years.

Macedonia

The Republic of Macedonia, formerly a part of Yugoslavia, is where grapevines grew naturally, as is the case with its neighbours, Bulgaria and Albania. Today, Macedonians claim to be descendants of Alexander the Great, although this is the cause of many disagreements, with the Greeks claiming him as their own.

Macedonia wines

There are archaeological findings that prove people were growing grapes in this part of the world in the 13th century BC. The moist mild climate and sunshine in Macedonia produces full-bodied, fruity red wines. It’s that big, bold style that has put the dark-skinned Vranec in people’s minds as a wine of serious international quality. The influences of various microclimates, soils and winemaking philosophies mean that Macedonia is a rich source of crisp, fresh whites, luscious reds, delightful rosés and a small amount of sparkling wine

Grape varieties

The grape varieties commonly cultivated include many native varieties as well as those common to Europe and the Balkans. Red varieties include Vranec (the most common variety of Macedonia), Kratosija, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Stanušina Crna , the latter being a unique variety of grape of Macedonian origin, capable of producing very high quality wines and very popular locally but little known outside of Macedonia. White varieties include Smederevka, Welschriesling (usually referred to as Laški Rizling), Temjanika, ( a sort of white muscat), Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Žilavka.

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