Learn more about Claret

Introduction to Claret

The term “Claret” historically refers to a type of red wine, originally from the Bordeaux region of France. While not a Hebrew or Greek term, “claret” entered the religious lexicon through older English translations and ecclesiastical usage. It is sometimes used to poetically or symbolically refer to red wine, especially in Christian sacramental contexts. In biblical usage, the concept of red wine holds significant theological and liturgical value, often symbolizing joy, covenant, and most notably, the blood of Christ in the New Testament.

Claret Pronunciation

“Claret” is pronounced as KLAIR-it, with the stress on the first syllable.

Claret in the Bible

Although the word “claret” itself does not appear in standard modern Bible translations such as the KJV, NIV, or ESV, it may appear in literary or poetic translations, or in older English literature and liturgy where wine is described in elevated or symbolic language. Biblically, wine—especially red wine—is frequently used both literally and metaphorically. Here are several important biblical themes and references related to claret (i.e., red wine):

• Genesis 14:18: Melchizedek, priest of God Most High, brings out bread and wine to bless Abram—an early typological connection between wine and divine blessing.
• Psalm 104:15: Wine is described as something that gladdens the heart of man, underscoring its role in celebration and joy.
• Proverbs 20:1: Wine can also be a symbol of temptation or mockery, depending on how it is used.
• Isaiah 63:3: The prophet describes God's wrath as a winepress, with blood-stained garments—red like wine—blending imagery of judgment and sacrificial blood.
• Matthew 26:27-29: At the Last Supper, Jesus offers the cup of wine as the “blood of the covenant,” a central sacramental use in Christianity.
• John 2:1-11: Jesus’ first miracle at Cana involves turning water into wine, symbolizing transformation, blessing, and joy.
• Revelation 14:19-20: The winepress of God's wrath again uses the color and nature of wine (deep red like blood) to depict divine judgment.

Related Themes and Meanings to Claret

Though “claret” is not a biblical word in itself, it symbolizes several major theological concepts:

• Sacrificial Blood: Especially in New Testament usage, wine becomes a representation of Christ’s atoning death.
• Joy and Celebration: In both Testaments, wine represents joy, festivity, and God’s blessings upon His people.
• Judgment: The imagery of the winepress is used as a metaphor for divine wrath in prophetic and apocalyptic passages.
• Communion and Covenant: Red wine symbolizes the New Covenant in Christ’s blood, forming the basis of the Christian sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

Claret in Christian Tradition

In the history of the Church, the term “claret” has been used in hymnody, sermons, and theological writings as a poetic synonym for the Eucharistic wine. It was especially prevalent in British contexts where Bordeaux wine was popular and accessible. The deep red hue of claret made it an evocative image for the blood of Christ. In Anglican and Catholic liturgies, red wine—whether referred to as claret or not—continues to hold a central role in the sacrament of Holy Communion.

Trivia and Interesting Facts about Claret

• The word “claret” is derived from the French “clairet,” which originally described a lighter red wine, but in English it came to mean a rich, dark red wine.
• Claret was the wine of choice for English royalty and clergy for centuries, especially after the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine to Henry II united England with Bordeaux.
• In literature, especially Victorian religious poetry, “claret” is often used to symbolize the blood of martyrs or Christ Himself.
• Though claret is not mentioned in Greek or Hebrew texts, its cultural and symbolic significance makes it a useful term in understanding Christian sacramental theology and liturgical history.