Vitis Vinifera, otherwise known as the vine or cultivated vine, is a species of dicotyledonous plant in the Vitaceae family, subfamily Vitoidaea. Don’t you get it? Of course not. Basically, Vitis Viniferais the vine species that produces the most prized grape must, making it ideal for wine production. It’s the plant that graces all vineyards.

Originating in the Old World, from southeastern Europe to central Asia, it is now grown on every continent except Antarctica. Today, these fruits are known for their usefulness in wine fermentation, but let’s not forget that they are also widely consumed as table grapes or raisins.

Some sources relate that in the Middle Ages and Antiquity, the vine was associated with a magical plant, enabling the practice of white magic (the belief that spiritual forces can interfere with the material). The vine is also an emblem of mystical ecstasy, and is still inseparable from the Eucharist today. It is also said to have certain virtues: the wine it produces may help treat chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

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