Macedonia Villagers Dig Up World War I Cognac

During World War I Gradesnica, Macedonia, was part of the front lines with Germans facing French troops. More than 90 years later, villagers have uncovered vintage Cognac and wine that historians believe was buried by French troops who were either killed or forgot to dig up the alcohol rations.

The first Cognac was uncovered in the old trenches about 15 years ago. Since then people exploring the old trenches and farmers plowing fields have discovered additional bottles often two cases at a time.

Gradesnica is located close to the border with Greece. French and other foreign fighters had joined with the Serbs to try to stop advancing German and Bulgarian troops.

Bottles found in the trenches could be quite valuable, but locals say they have consumed everything they have found.