Oenomancy, sometimes called wine divination, is the ancient practice of interpreting the future or uncovering hidden truths through wine. The word comes from the Greek oinos (wine) and manteia (divination).

In ancient Greece and Rome, wine was seen as sacred — a divine gift that bridged the mortal and spiritual worlds. Oenomancy turned this belief into ritual: by studying the colour, movement, bubbles, or sediment of wine, practitioners sought messages from the gods.

The rituals of wine divination

While methods differed across cultures, several forms of oenomancy became well known:

• The Pouring Method: Wine was poured as an offering to deities. The flow, bubbles, and residue were then “read” for omens.
• The Sediment Reading: Much like reading tea leaves, the lees or dregs left at the bottom of the cup were interpreted for insight.
• The Taste and Sensation Test: Some believed that the flavour or feeling of a sip taken during a wish or question could reveal a hidden truth.
• The Fire Method: Pouring wine into flames was said to reveal divine favour through the intensity or colour of the fire.

Each of these rituals combined sensory experience with spirituality — a reminder that wine has long carried both pleasure and mystery.

Wine, the divine, and the everyday

To the ancient Greeks, wine wasn’t just a drink; it was the essence of Dionysus, god of revelry, fertility, and inspiration. Drinking wine could bring mortals closer to divine ecstasy.

Romans also used wine in augury and religious rites, believing its patterns and reactions reflected the gods’ will. Even during the Christian Middle Ages, traces of oenomancy persisted in folk traditions — such as tasting wine on New Year’s Day to predict the year ahead: sweet for prosperity, sour for hardship.]

Modern echoes of oenomancy

Today, oenomancy has largely faded into history — but its spirit endures. Modern wine tasting still involves “reading” a glass: noting its legs, clarity, and aroma, and seeking meaning beyond the obvious.

Some contemporary mystics have revived oenomancy in new forms, using wine as part of meditation, tarot, or ritual work. Even for the sceptical, the idea that a simple glass of wine can hold wisdom continues to fascinate.

Why oenomancy still captivates people

Wine, perhaps more than any other drink, invites reflection. Its colours shift with the light, its flavours unfold over time, and each vintage carries its own story. Oenomancy reminds us that wine has always been more than a beverage — it’s been a mirror of the human spirit, a bridge between the tangible and the divine.

So, when you next raise a glass, take a moment to swirl, observe, and imagine. You might not see the future — but you’ll be part of a tradition that’s been inspiring wonder for thousands of years.

Wine workshops and tastings

At Wine Monkey, we celebrate wine in all its forms — from taste to tradition and our wine tastings and themed events are a great way to explore different wines. Whether you’re drawn to history or simply love sharing wine with good company, join us for an evening that blends storytelling, tasting, and a touch of ancient magic.