A butt was a medieval unit of measure for wine

A “butt” - A Medieval Unit of Measure for Wine

The history of wine is filled with fascinating tales and intriguing facts. One such fact is that in Medieval times, the term “butt” was used as a unit of measure for wine. While this may raise a few eyebrows today, it was a standard measurement unit in wine production during that era.

The precise origin of the term “butt” as a wine measurement unit is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated from the Latin word “buttis,” meaning cask or barrel. A “butt” was a large volume container mainly used to store wine or other liquids, often made from wooden staves and held together with iron hoops.

A “butt” in Medieval wine measurement equaled approximately 126 gallons or 477 liters, which is roughly 108 standard wine cases. The size of a butt varied slightly between regions, making conversions somewhat challenging. For example, in Bordeaux, France, a “butt” was approximately 124 gallons, while in Portugal, it measured around 132 gallons.

In Medieval times, wine production was a significant industry throughout Europe. Wine was not only a staple beverage but also a vital trade commodity. The “butt” measurement unit allowed producers, merchants, and consumers to have a standardized understanding of the quantity of wine being bought, sold, or transported.

The use of the term “butt” as a unit of wine measurement extended well beyond Medieval times. It persisted through the Renaissance and into the early modern era, gradually falling out of favor as the wine industry modernized and moved towards more standardized measurements.

Today, the “butt” measurement unit is largely obsolete in the wine industry. Instead, modern measurement units such as liters and hectoliters are used to ensure accuracy and consistency in production, trade, and regulation. However, the term “butt” remains a curious relic of the past, reminding us of the rich history and tradition associated with wine.

In conclusion, the Medieval measurement unit known as the “butt” was an important part of the wine industry. It served as a standard unit of measure for wine production and trade, allowing for consistency and understanding among producers, merchants, and consumers. Although this measurement unit is no longer widely used, it continues to capture our curiosity and highlights the evolution of the wine industry throughout history.

Sources:
English Wine Cask Units - Wikipedia