Maybe a silly question

OK, I understand that sulfites have been used throughout history in wine
making but I have been curious as to how they did it. We have access to
purified refined versions of sulfites that are ancestors did not. Now
sulfur wicks and candles in barrels I can understand but meta bisulfites?
How would great great great grandpa Joe do it it the old country? Or go
back further how about the greeks?

Who's the resident chemical /historian?

Tom