Thomas Jefferson was a passionate drinker of wine

To commence his duties as America's Minister to France, Jefferson traveled to Paris in 1785. Soon after, he arranged an official three-month trip to Piedmont, Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Rhone in southern France and northern Italy. As he became well acquainted with the centuries-old customs involved in cultivating and crafting the distinctive wines of each area, this journey opened his eyes to the finer side of wine and eventually molded his taste. From that, he came one of the first defenders of wine in America, Thomas Jefferson loved the beverage. He was a skilled winemaker who also played a key role in developing the nation's first wine business.

Additionally, Jefferson owned two vineyards at his house, Monticello, and was known for making fine wines. A cider room was situated next to a wine cellar that was 17 1/2 feet long, 15 feet broad, and 10 feet high. His 1769 Shadwell wine inventory, which included 83 bottles of rum, 15 bottles of Madeira, four bottles of "Lisbon wine for general use," and 54 bottles of cider, shows that he had an early interest in wine. Over time, however, this inventory would drastically shift. Jefferson's wines earned a reputation for being of excellent quality and delectable, and they were regarded as some of the best in the nation. He even offered George Washington some of his wines since he was so proud of them. Thomas Jefferson loved eating as well. He loved trying out different foods and was highly interested in cooking. He was known for cooking wonderful dishes and frequently hosted dinner parties at his house.