Archaeologists excavating a newly identified periphery of the Dholavira site in Gujarat have uncovered a sophisticated industrial complex dedicated to viticulture and wine production. The find includes a series of stone-lined fermentation vats and ceramic storage jars that show distinct chemical traces of tartaric and malic acids, suggesting a large-scale operation for processing grapes into fermented beverages.
This discovery provides the first concrete evidence of systematic fruit cultivation and fermentation science within the Indus Valley civilization. Researchers identified specialized terracotta strainers and cooling chambers designed to maintain the consistent temperatures required for the fermentation process, highlighting the Harappans' mastery of complex organic chemistry and urban logistics.