Drinks
Posca (Roman Vinegar Water)
Ingredients
- - 1 litre water (4 cups water)
- - 60-80 ml red wine vinegar, to taste (4-5 tbsp red wine vinegar)
- - 1 tbsp honey, optional
- - A few fresh herb sprigs, such as thyme or fennel, optional
Method
- Combine the water and vinegar in a jug and stir well.
- Taste and adjust the vinegar to preference - it should be pleasantly sharp, not overpowering.
- Stir in honey if a slightly sweeter, more palatable version is preferred.
- Add herb sprigs if using, and chill briefly before serving.
- Serve cold as a simple, refreshing everyday drink.
Native Name: Posca
Cultural Background: Posca was the everyday drink of Roman soldiers and labourers: water cut with sour wine or vinegar, cheap, thirst-quenching and mildly antiseptic. It's the drink famously offered to a thirsty person on the cross in the Gospels, and was carried by legionaries on campaign across the empire.
Tips: Start with less vinegar than you think you need and add gradually – the correct balance is subtle sourness, not a strong vinegar taste.
Variations: A pinch of ground coriander seed stirred in gives a slightly more aromatic, elevated take on the basic soldier's version.
Vegetarian / Vegan Note: Naturally vegan.
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Not applicable – served cold.
Nutrition: Approx. 15 kcal, 0 g protein, 4 g carbohydrate, 0 g fat per serving.
FAQs:
Q: Who drank posca?
A: It was the standard ration drink of Roman soldiers and was also common among the poor, valued for being cheap and safer to drink than plain untreated water.
Q: Is it meant to taste strongly of vinegar?
A: No – it should be lightly soured water, refreshing rather than sharp; adjust the vinegar quantity to taste.