Altar Wine
Altar wine, or sacramental wine, refers to wine derived from the fruit of grapes and intended specifically for use in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist (or The Lord's Supper). This simply means that the wine must be naturally fermented from grapes, pure without additives or preservatives, and cannot have soured or become vinegar. Altar wine may be red or white, weak or strong, sweet or dry.
Generally, the alcohol content present in pure, naturally fermented, grape wine is acceptable in the Roman Catholic Church. This stems from the view of "moderationism," which states that moderation and self-control are the biblical norms to be used with all food and drink, in contrast to total abstinence. In some circumstances, however, it is acceptable to add water to reduce the alcoholic content or use a grape wine that is minimally fermented called "mustum" (closely resembles grape juice).
Altar wine must meet strict requirements of purity, as defined in detail in the Code of Canon Law of the Roman Catholic Church. Since pure grape wine is imperative in complying with church laws, altar wine is commonly purchased directly from a reputable manufacturer, who is conscientious and respects the great responsibility involved in producing the sacramental wine.
There are wineries throughout the world that produce sacramental wines either exclusively, or as an auxiliary business. These wineries are often small and run by priests, religious brethren, or dedicated laity. The O-Neh-Da Vineyard is one of the oldest and most well-known producers of authentic sacramental wine in the world. It was founded by Bishop Bernard McQuaid in 1872. An O-Neh-Da Vineyard (East Crest Vineyard) is located in the Finger Lakes Region of Livingston County, New York.
The Holy Eucharist is a sacred blessing. It is observed in all Masses in the Roman Catholic Church. The wine, along with the bread, are the two elements of the Eucharist. The bread and wine represent the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, who died on the Cross for all the sins of all mankind.
When the Holy Eucharist is celebrated during Masses today, it is customary for only the priest to drink the altar wine directly from the chalice. All others receive communion in the form of bread only. This practice is used, not only for economic reasons, but to emphasize the Catholic belief that the whole Christ is received in either form--both wine and bread are not necessary.
