Milliarium Cellars takes its name from the Latin noun for a mark or post designating a certain distance travelled.  Contemporary translations might include the terms "mile marker" or "milepost."  Originally, milliaria were stone obelisks used in Roman times as an aid for travelers along routes between cities.  The zero-mile stone, erected in the center of Rome to mark the metaphorical center of the Empire, was used as the point from which all distances were reckoned and gave rise to the idiom "All roads lead to Rome."  At Milliarium Cellars, we have found in this ancient word a meaning that surpasses the literal translation.  Milliarium is about the milestones we set for ourselves on our journey through life and, more importantly, about the profound sense of accomplishment and celebration that comes with the achievement of these milestones.

     For millenia, humans have been creating and enjoying wine, with the earliest evidence of intentional fermentation dating to 6000 B.C. in the region of what is now the border between southeast Europe and the Middle East.  The science of winemaking was born in 1857 when the famous microbiologist Louis Pasteur proved that the yeasts responsible for fermentation, and thus the conversion of grape juice to wine, were indeed living organisms.

     The story of Milliarium Cellars begins not in a vineyard but in a laboratory.  Winery owner, John Zielinski, has been a student of the sciences since childhood.  His education, including a Masters' degree in marine environmental science, took him to several areas of the country and provided an opportunity to sample and study some of the nation's most notable wine regions.  Living for two years on Long Island, pursuing his graduate education, had a particular impact upon John's appreciation for and knowledge of the art of winemaking.  Hobby soon evolved into passion and John eagerly attended formal tastings, began amassing an impressive library of wine-related literature and took a position working in the wine industry.  He recognized in winemaking a fusion of his two great interests - wine and science.  It was during these early years that John resolved to someday start his own winery.  In life, as in science, perseverence and a measure of good fortune are often necessary to achieve a milestone.  Years of education, research and study yielded the achievement of John's grand milestone, Milliarium Cellars.  It is with a nod to science and a deep respect for the role wine has played in the history of human civilization that Milliarium Cellars was created.

     The achievement of a goal does not signify an end to the effort.  Each success brings a new set of challenges and establishes new milestones.  At Milliarium Cellars, it is our goal to create memorable, distinctive wines with which you may commemorate your accomplishments.  Whether it be a celebration of a momentous occasion, a victory in life or simply making it through the day, when you mark a milestone with a Milliarium Cellars wine, our family celebrates with you!

 

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