Moscatel Morisco: The Role of Wine in the Formation of Morisco Identity

This article explores how Moriscos adapted to changing political pressures through the food and drink they consumed, specifically through their relationship to wine. To contextualize Morisco wine production and consumption, I first examine the religious, legal and poetic contexts within Muslim-Mudejar history and how wine informed their identity. Using Bourdieu's theory of distinction and the fact that practices as banal as eating and drinking reflect social identity, I then turn to specific case studies. Records of vineyards and wine production, regulatory laws, and an artistic expression of Morisco wine consumption reflect economic, social and cultural realities for Moriscos and contribute to our understanding of Morisco identity.