Winemaking in Georgia has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of wine production from around 8000 BC. The traditional winemaking techniques used in Georgia are unique and have been passed down for centuries.
General Terroir & History
One of the most distinctive techniques used in Georgian winemaking is the use of qvevri, large clay vessels that are buried underground. The grapes are placed in the qvevri, along with their stems and skins, and left to ferment and age. This method, known as "orange wine" production, results in wines with a distinct amber color and complex flavors. Another technique used in winemaking is the use of Amphora which are also large clay vessels but unlike Qvevri these are not buried underground and have a different shape, this method is not as popular as Qvevri but still used in some regions.
Major Wine Varietals & Styles
One of the most well-known grape varietals used in Georgian winemaking is the Saperavi grape. This grape is known for its high tannin content and strong, full-bodied flavor. Saperavi grapes are used to make a number of different wine styles, including dry reds, semi-sweet reds, and sparkling wines.
Do note that although Georgian style ferment is still the de facto, Western style ferment has also become more and more apparent, and can be combined to create unique wine styles that might vary from the natural taste profile of the grape varietal
Rkatsiteli
This is a white grape variety that is one of the most widely planted grape varietals in Georgia. It is known for producing wines with crisp acidity, minerality, and flavors of citrus and green apple. It is typically grown in the Imereti region, and is used to make full bodied dry white wines.
Mtsvane
Mtsvane is a versatile grape varietal and is used to make a range of different wine styles, including dry white wines, semi-sweet white wines, and sparkling wines. It is mainly grown in the Kakheti region, but also can be found in other regions of Georgia. The wine made from Mtsvane grapes is known for its delicate bouquet and a fruity taste, with a hint of citrus, apricot, and sometimes floral & tea notes. It is also praised for its balance between acidity and sweetness. The wine is characterized by a pale yellow color and a light to medium body.
Chinuri
This is a white grape variety that is known for its high acidity and minerality. It is typically grown in the Kartli region and is used to make bodied dry white wines.
Tetri
This is a white grape variety that is known for its fruity aromas and crisp acidity. It is typically grown in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region and is used to make dry white wines.
Tsolikauri
This is a white grape variety that is known for its semi-sweet white wines. It is typically grown in the Ajara region and is used to make wine with high sugar content and flavors of apricot, peach, and honey.
Ojaleshi
This is a white grape variety that is known for its floral and fruity aromas. It is typically grown in the Guria region and is used to make dry white wines.
Aladasturi
This is a red grape variety that is known for its medium-bodied and tannic wines. It is typically grown in the Kartli region and is used to make dry red wines which hav ecrisp acidity & mineralty, with flavors of black cherry and plum
Khikhvi
This is a white grape variety that is known for sweet style wines. It is typically grown in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region and with soft acidity and moderate alcohol levels, it stands alone as a single varietal wine, or contributes high-tones to enhance a blend.
Chkhaveri
Dark and rosy-pink, they are used to produce table and sparkling wines with a floral aroma and are one of the only varieties in the country from which natural rose wines are made. The grape originated in western Guria Region.
Major Winemaking Regions
Overall, Georgia is a country with a great diversity of grape varietals, and each region of the country has its own unique characteristics and focus.
-
Kakheti: located in the east of the country, Kakheti is known for its red wines made from the Saperavi grape. It is the largest wine-producing region in Georgia, and wines from Kakheti are known for their rich and complex flavors. One of the most renowned sub-regions of Kakheti is Mukuzani, which produces only Saperavi.
-
Imereti: located in the west of the country, Imereti is known for its white wines made from the Rkatsiteli grape. These wines are known for their crisp acidity and minerality.
-
Kartli: This region is located in the center of the country and is known for its red wines made from the Aladasturi grape and white wines made from the Chinuri grape.
-
Ajaria: This region is located in the south-west of the country and is known for its semi-sweet white wines made from the Tsolikauri grape.
-
Guria: This region is located in the west of the country and is known for its white wines made from the Ojaleshi grape.
-
Samtskhe-Javakheti: This region is located in the south of the country and is known for its red wines made from the Khikhvi grape, as well as its white wines made from the Tetri grape.
In Conclusion
Georgian wine offers a truly distinctive and delicious taste experience. With its unique winemaking techniques, diverse range of grape varietals, and ancient winemaking history, it is no wonder that Georgia is considered the origin of wine. Whether you prefer dry reds, semi-sweet reds, or crisp white wines, you are sure to find a wine in Georgia that you will love.
