Scientists have studied three ancient amphorae found underwater on the sea floor off the coast of San Felice Cicero in Italy to find out how the ancient Romans made wine.. During the study, scientists studied the remains of ancient plants that were found on their walls, according to Forbes..

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The researchers recovered grapevine pollen, plant tissue remains and other chemical markers that led them to conclude ancient amphorae were used as winemaking vessels.. One of the authors of the study, Louise Chassoin, admitted that scientists were not sure that they would be able to collect archaeobotanical fossils.. However, their method allowed them to dissolve the coating on the jars, allowing them to detect charcoal and non-porous pollen.. And this helped them determine the type of vine used by the Romans..

The pollen was consistent with that of wild vine species, indicating the use of native plants. Chemical markers indicated the production of both red and white wine.

In addition, the researchers found that the Romans used local pine tree resin to make amphorae waterproof.. Scholars believe this indicates a regional trade that was not previously known..

Earlier, maritime archaeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority found traces of two sunken ships at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea near the ancient city of Caesarea.. Shipwrecks took place at different times, but almost in the same place.