Wine has been part of meals, celebrations and rituals for thousands of years. National Drink Wine Day, on February 18, is a chance for adults of legal drinking age to enjoy a glass, learn something about wine, or support local wineries. Whether you prefer a bold red, crisp white or sparkling rosé, the focus is on savoring, not overdoing it. Non-drinkers can join in with grape juice or a non-alcoholic wine.
History of National Drink Wine Day
Wine is one of the oldest fermented drinks. Archaeologists have found evidence of winemaking in the country of Georgia dating back about 8,000 years, and in Iran from around 7,000 years ago. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans all made and traded wine, and the Romans spread vineyards across Europe.
In the Americas, Spanish missionaries planted vineyards in the 1500s and 1600s, and later in California in the 1700s. Wine production in the U.S. was devastated by Prohibition from 1920 to 1933, but it recovered. In 1976, at a blind tasting in Paris, California wines outscored famous French wines, an event that helped put American wine on the world map.
Today, wine is produced in all 50 U.S. states, with California, Washington, Oregon and New York among the largest producers. Who created National Drink Wine Day is not documented.
Why National Drink Wine Day Matters
Wine connects agriculture, history and culture. Learning about grapes and regions can make a glass more interesting.
The day is also a chance to support local wineries and the farmers who grow grapes, while remembering to drink responsibly.
How to Celebrate National Drink Wine Day
- Do a tasting: compare two wines made from the same grape in different regions.
- Pair with food: try red wine with hearty dishes and white with lighter meals.
- Visit a local winery: many offer tastings and tours.
- Learn the basics: look, swirl, smell and sip to notice aromas and flavors.
- Drink responsibly: enjoy in moderation and never drink and drive.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, if alcohol is appropriate, keep it to after-hours events with plenty of non-alcoholic options, and never pressure anyone to drink. A sparkling grape juice toast works for any office. In classrooms, the day is best approached through agriculture and science: students can learn how grapes grow, how fermentation works with yeast, and how climate affects crops, without any focus on alcohol. At home, adults can enjoy a glass with dinner or explore a regional wine, while children can have sparkling juice. Store wine away from children and plan a safe ride if you are out.
Fun Facts About National Drink Wine Day
- Evidence of winemaking in Georgia dates back about 8,000 years.
- The 1976 'Judgment of Paris' tasting raised the profile of California wine.
- Wine is made in all 50 U.S. states.
National Drink Wine Day FAQs
When is National Drink Wine Day?
National Drink Wine Day is February 18.
How old is winemaking?
Evidence from Georgia suggests wine was made about 8,000 years ago.
What is the Judgment of Paris?
A 1976 blind tasting in which California wines beat top French wines.
What should non-drinkers do?
Celebrate with sparkling grape juice or non-alcoholic wine.