The Ancient Palate

Step inside the painted tombs of ancient Etruria, where the musicians are still playing, the wine is still flowing, and the dead remain gathered around the table.

In this episode of The Ancient Palate, Elizabeth Gilkey explores Etruscan funerary banquets and the extraordinary tomb paintings of Tarquinia, asking what food, wine and feasting can reveal about memory, identity, gender and the enduring relationship between the living and the dead.

Produced by Matt Aucott in collaboration with UCL Communications.

In the Roman world, wine was more than a drink—it was ritual, economy, and empire distilled. This episode delves into the vineyards of ancient Rome, where wine was a marker of civilisation and commerce. Elizabeth Gilkey speaks with Dr Emlyn Dodd, Senior Lecturer in Classical Studies at the Institute of Classical Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London, and former Assistant Director at the British School at Rome, to uncover the craftsmanship, commerce, and culture behind ancient viticulture. Their discussion traverses vineyards and villas, amphorae and altars, tracing how Roman winemaking still echoes in the glass today.

Produced by Matt Aucott in collaboration with UCL Communications.

This episode explores the Etruscan origins of Tuscan winemaking, highlighting how ancient techniques and traditions influence modern practices. Archaeologist Elizabeth Gilkey speaks with Charlotte Horton, award-winning winemaker at Castello di Potentino, to discuss the impact of Monte Amiata’s volcanic soil, the cultural and spiritual significance of wine, and the enduring link between history and viticulture.

Produced by Matt Aucott in collaboration with UCL Communications.