From William Shakespeare to Isaac Newton

Relations between the Canary Islands and the United Kingdom: history and wines

The relationships between the Canary Islands and the United Kingdom are not only based on modern tourism but also on centuries of commercial exchange. One of the most important products was Canary wine, especially appreciated in England during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Canary wine in English literature

William Shakespeare mentioned Canary wine in his works. In Henry V , one of his characters, Sir John Falstaff, talks about 'sack,' which probably refers to a type of generous wine produced in the Canary Islands. Although the word 'Canary' is not mentioned directly, many experts believe it refers to Malvasia, highly famous in that era.

Isaac Newton and the wine from the Canary Islands. Trade between the Canary Islands and Great Britain

Isaac Newton, known for his scientific discoveries, was also a fan of Canary wine. However, his excessive consumption may have caused him gout, a common disease among the upper classes who drank a lot of wine. Some studies indicate this was due to lead present in storage barrels.

Curiosities about Isaac Newton

Newton experimented with alchemy and even introduced a needle into his eye to study light. It’s possible that before those experiments, he had a bit of Canary sack to calm himself. This connection between science and history is fascinating and shows how wine united cultures.