U.S. presidents, including George Washington, have a history of enjoying fine food and wine. Recent archaeological discoveries at Washington’s Mount Vernon plantation, now a museum, provide more insight into his tastes.

Archaeologists uncovered dozens of 18th-century glass bottles in storage pits beneath the estate cellar, 29 of which were intact and packed with preserved cherries and berries.

These bottles, typical of the mid-18th century, are being conserved in the museum’s lab.

The discovery occurred during a $40 million Mansion Revitalization Project, which started in 2023, the Wine Spectator has reported.

Researchers found 54 cherry pits, 23 stems, and some pulp, indicating the cherries were likely a tart variety with natural longevity.

DNA extraction and possible germination of the pits are being explored.

Written by B.C. Begley