My mom used to make Vishnik, a Romanian sour cherry brandy. It was an old family recipe handed down from my great-grandfather. He operated a brandy distillery, and his sons, including my grandfather, Wolf, went into the business. The business mostly catered to the small Jewish community in Comanesti, Romania, and the surrounding villages. The cherry brandy was sold in barrels along with home-made wine.

Selling booze was a very profitable business in Eastern Europe. One could make more money converting grain or fruit to alcohol than selling it as food. It is estimated that at one time, 30% of Eastern European Jews were in the business of producing and selling booze.

Historical Context

To understand the Jewish involvement in the alcohol trade, we must first consider the historical context. Throughout much of history, Jews have faced various forms of discrimination, exclusion, and limited economic opportunities. They were often barred from owning land or pursuing certain professions, leading them to seek alternative avenues for economic stability, such as becoming merchants, tradesmen, or craftsmen.

Cultural and Religious

Judaism has a long-standing tradition of wine consumption and production. Wine plays a central role in religious ceremonies and observances, such as the Sabbath and Passover. This cultural familiarity with alcohol, combined with knowledge and experience in wine-making, provided a foundation for Jews to enter the alcohol trade. It made economic sense to expand sales to the Gentile community.

Skills and Networks

Jewish communities historically fostered a culture of entrepreneurship and commerce. Jews often lived in close-knit communities, which allowed for the development of extensive networks and trading relationships. These connections, coupled with the Jewish emphasis on education, provided Jews with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various industries, including alcohol.

Access to Financing

Due to societal and legal restrictions, Jews were often excluded from other sectors of the economy, such as landownership or guilds. Consequently, they turned to industries that required less initial capital, such as the alcohol trade, where small-scale operations could be established.

Legal and Social Marginalization

It was common practice in Eastern Europe to relegate Jews to marginalized social positions, which restricted their access to certain professions or resources. Consequently, they sought opportunities in sectors that were less regulated or controlled by the majority population. The alcohol trade, at times, fell into this category, making it an attractive option for Jewish entrepreneurs.

Global Diaspora and Migration

Producing alcohol was a portable business. Jews often were forced to migrate to avoid persecution. As Jews settled in new lands, they brought their skills, traditions, and entrepreneurial spirit. The alcohol trade became a familiar and accessible avenue for Jewish immigrants seeking economic stability and integration in their adopted countries.

The Jewish involvement in the alcohol trade throughout history is a testament to their resilience, resourcefulness, and determination in the face of adversity. From cultural traditions and networks to economic necessity and historical circumstances, multiple factors converged to enable Jews to carve out a place for themselves in this industry.