A shipwreck containing at least 100 bottles of champagne and German soda water from the 19th century was recently discovered off Öland.
With the help of historians and the shape of the labels on the German soda bottles, the diving group Baltitech from Poland was able to estimate the find to be about 150 years old. Namely, the labels were used during the period 1850-1867.
The find and its cargo have of course attracted attention, and there is potentially great value in the old champagne. But it’s not just about diving down and retrieving.
– Right now, the investigation is underway as to whether it is an ancient relic or not. If we make a decision that it is an ancient relic, the Cultural Environment Act’s second chapter that protects ancient remains applies, says Daniel Ternelind, antiquarian at the County Administrative Board, Kalmar County.
Until the investigation is complete, the Coast Guard will keep an eye on the shipwreck.