Paradosis

October 24, 2007

Orthodox Wine-making Monks

From the AP:
Bosnia Orthodox monks inspects color and quality of botled wine in the monastery of Tvrdos , in a remote area in southern Bosnia-Herzegovina, near Trebinje ,120 kms southeast of Sarajevo, on Monday, Oct. 8, 2007. The monastery, built by Byzantine kings in 4th century, and rebuilt in late 18th century, is inhabited by 11 orthodox monks whose job is not only to devote themselves to Christ, but also to make one of the greatest homemade products in Bosnia. Dry red wine. Priests explained that the history of making wine in this monastery goes beyond several centuries. 'It brings us closer to God - in our prayers - wine is transformed to Christ blood and it makes us part of its church' one of the priests said. It is very hard to buy Tvrdos monastery wine. The only shop that sells it is their own, monastery shop. In their shop it costs 36 euro ($51) per bottle. (AP Photo/Amel Emric)

More pics may be viewed HERE.

Fr. Jonah told me that they were looking into brewing beer, I wonder if that ever got off the ground. Anyway...the next time I know of someone going to Bosnia...and the next time I have $51 to splurge...