Watch The Cultivated Life: Thomas Jefferson and Wine

The Cultivated Life: Thomas Jefferson and Wine is a 2005 documentary starring Bill Barker, Hal Holbrook, and Umberto Squarcia Jr. that explores the intersection of wine and politics in the life of Thomas Jefferson, one of America's Founding Fathers. Throughout the film, viewers are taken on a journey through the life of Thomas Jefferson as seen through the lens of his passion for wine. A connoisseur of the finer things in life, Jefferson's love of wine is well-documented in his letters, which provide a trove of knowledge on the subject.

The film begins by exploring Jefferson's early years, focusing on his time in France where he first became enamored with the world of wine. It quickly becomes clear that Jefferson's appreciation for wine was not just limited to its taste, but also included an appreciation for the intellectual and cultural pursuits associated with the product.

As the documentary unfolds, viewers are treated to a tour of Jefferson's famous estate in Virginia, Monticello. Here, we witness firsthand Jefferson's extensive wine cellar, which housed bottles from around the world. We also learn of his efforts to cultivate European-style viticulture in the United States, importing grapevines from France and Italy in an effort to create a uniquely American brand of wine.

Along the way, we hear from experts in the fields of wine, history, and politics who offer their insights into the importance of wine in Jefferson's life. Among them is Umberto Squarcia Jr., a wine historian and collector who provides a detailed analysis of Jefferson's wine collection and its significance.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the film, however, is the way in which it explores the intersection of wine and politics in Jefferson's life. We learn of his diplomatic efforts to secure favorable trade agreements with European powers, which often involved negotiating over wine. We also hear about his efforts to promote viticulture in America as a means of promoting national self-sufficiency and independence from Europe.

Throughout the film, we see how Jefferson's love of wine was intertwined with his beliefs about the role of the United States in the world. His vision for an independent and self-sufficient America was reflected in his efforts to promote viticulture and create a uniquely American brand of wine.

In summation, The Cultivated Life: Thomas Jefferson and Wine is a fascinating documentary that provides a unique perspective on the life of one of America's most important historical figures. Through the lens of his love of wine, we are offered glimpses into the man behind the myth, and gain new insights into the broader political and cultural landscape of early America.

The Cultivated Life: Thomas Jefferson and Wine is a 2005 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes.