The grapes have been present in Riquewihr and the region since immemorial time. The transition from harvesting to actual cultivation took place after the Roman conquest. Remains bear witness to the growing importance of viticulture. First, heaps of seeds and the remains of wooden barrels were found. Then, vine motifs gradually appeared on pottery or in bas-relief. In Riquewihr, the rich renaissance houses have oriel windows. Their corner posts are carved with characters or decorative motifs often related to wine, such as bunches and tools.