Sources. Beer was a staple for all Egyptians, while wine was the drink of choice for the elite. Scholars have learned about the use of beer and wine from archaeological evidence and tomb art. There are both paintings and small wooden models that depict beer making. Tomb paintings also illustrate winemaking.

Origins of Beer. The Egyptians made beer in the Predynastic Period (circa 3100-3000 B.C.E.) and perhaps even earlier. Evidence comes from Hierakonpolis, where archaeologists have discovered large ceramic vats that contained a residue they believe was created during brewing. The residue contained wheat chaff fixed in a clear substance. Ash and charcoal surrounded the vat, and the vat's sides were reddened. Since beer processing includes heating grain until it ferments, this evidence suggested that the vat was part of a beer-making site.

Brewing. Beer results from the...