Probably the oldest alcoholic drink, wine is enjoyed in many forms around the world. iStockphoto/ Thinkstock

Wine is one of those things that people like to be able to talk about. And while some people can carry on a good wine-related conversation, most people wing it.

It's a testament to this, our most ancient alcoholic drink, that it still holds such esteem in our society. In its 10,000-year history, the people who really needed to know a lot about wine were the people who improved the inevitable process of fermentation and made a good vat of juice into great casks of the beloved beverage.



In that process, the wine can come out so many different ways that those who drink it have sought to know a little about that magic. Here are some of the facts behind the ancient practice -- and some long-held fictions, too.