The Danes are renowned brewers, But new research suggests that their Viking ancestors were skilled winemakers as well.

It had always been assumed that the Scandinavian climate was too harsh for viticulture. But there is now evidence that some grapes were grown locally, the Local reported.

According to the Danish science news site Videnskab.dk. Scientists are analysing two centuries old grape pips discovered at a Viking settlement at Tissø, 61 miles west of Copenhagen.

They were found by Peter Steen Henriksen of Denmark’s National Museum.

“This is the first discovery and sign of wine production in Denmark, with all that that entails in terms of status and power,” he said.

“We do not know how the grapes were used – it may have been just to have a pretty bunch of grapes decorating a table, for example – but it is reasonable to believe that they made wine.”

A scientific analysis of the grape pips suggested that they were grown in Zealand.

Even though there is a possibility that the grapes were grown locally just to eat, the extensive travels of Viking explorers would have brought them into contact with wine growing areas.

In addition, Roman wine cups have been found elsewhere in Scandinavia.