Definition: amphora

The spike allowed it to be placed in a holder or stuck into the sand. With or without a base, amphorae were used in Greco-Roman antiquity to transport wine, olive oil and cereals, as well as serving as a measure of capacity. Sealed with a large cork stopper, the use of which has been lost, then with a mixture of straw and plaster, the interior was usually coated with resin to make it more watertight. This is undoubtedly the origin of resin-coated wines. This amphora tradition continues today in Spain for the vinification of certain wines in "tinajas", similar to ancient amphorae.

See also Ancient @.