The earliest known chemical evidence of beer in the world dates to c. 3500–3100 BC from the site of Godin Tepe in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran, and there is evidence of beer-drinking over a long period in the Median Empire.[1][2] Since the Iranian Revolution of 1979, production, possession or distribution of any alcoholic beverages is illegal and punishable under Islamic law. However, members of legally tolerated non-Muslim religious minorities – Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians – are allowed to produce alcoholic beverages for consumption at home and use in religious rituals.[3] While non-alcoholic beers are the only ones available from legal outlets, illegal alcoholic beers are smuggled into the country and consumed.[4]
- ^ Wilkins, John; and Hill, Shaun. Food in the ancient world, Wiley-Blackwell, pg. 132, 2006. ISBN 978-0-631-23551-4
- ^ Kugel, James L. Traditions of the Bible, Harvard University Press, pg. 569, 1998. ISBN 978-0-674-79151-0
- ^ "Getting drunk in a Muslim country: Iran's secret party scene revealed". The Independent. 2014-03-26. Retrieved 2020-07-18.
- ^ "Alcoholic Drinks in Iran". Euromonitor.com. Retrieved 2011-07-12.