The best varieties of wines in Georgia

When a person hears about Georgian wines, the names of these drinks are immediately associated with the specificity of flavoring and aromatic bouquets, as well as with the special area of ​​winemaking. Georgia is a country of grapes, snow-capped mountains, beautiful songs, ancient and colorful wine-making traditions.

History of Georgian winemaking

The history of winemaking in Georgia begins from the 10th century BC. NS. This fact was proved by archaeologists who discovered fragments of the famous ceramic vessels called qvevri.

The adoption of Christianity by Georgians also contributed to the development of winemaking. Since that time, wines, especially red wines, have been used for ritual and medicinal purposes.

Winemaking in the southern country reached its peak in the 19th century. An important role in this was played by the Appanage Department, which was owned by the Russian Tsar. He owned the vineyards that gave rise to the most famous brands of Georgian wines.

The best local, Russian and French specialists took part in the development of Georgian winemaking.

In the 70s of the XIX century, two events took place in Georgia - a school for the training of professional winemakers was opened and the production of Georgian champagne began.

Winemaking in Georgia received its further development already under Soviet rule. Then 4 centers for the production of branded wines were formed. In addition to Georgia, they included Moldova, Armenia and Crimea. At this time, the Georgian center became popular outside not only Georgia, but also the Soviet Union.

Nowadays, the best Georgian wines are recognized as brands of the European level, which allows them to be supplied to many countries of the world.

The best varieties of Georgian wines

These wines are produced without added sugar. For this reason, they have a sour taste and are subdivided into:

• for varietal, that is, produced from berries of the same variety;
• for vintage (they are also made from the same variety, but according to strictly controlled technologies);
• for collection (undergo long-term aging in qvevri).

The Georgian wine Kindzmarauli, which is the most famous wine product in the world, is considered to be the best varieties. Kindzmarauli is produced according to the Imeretian technology from the Saperavi variety, which is cultivated in the Kakhetian village of Kvareli. As the best wine brand in Georgia, Kindzmarauli is now produced in several regions of the country at once.

In addition, the Georgian list of the best wines is topped by:

1. Tsinandali - white dry with a golden hue, aged two years, with a floral and honey aroma. Produced from Rkatsiteli and Mtsvanetsveta grapes.
2. Kvareli - refers to red wines, the basis of production is the Saperavi variety. It has a delicate taste, delicate aroma and rich color.
3. Ojaleshi is a rare ruby-colored brand, produced in western Georgia since 1933 from the grapes of the same name.
4. Barakoni is a red semi-dry wine of pomegranate color shades and aroma of mountain violets, based on the Georgian grapes Aleksandrouli and Mujeretuli.
5. Rkatsiteli is a dark amber dry white wine with a fruit taste and a tea rose scent.
6. Teliani is a vintage table red wine with a cherry and barberry flavor, made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

These drinks represent the Georgian brand internationally, competing with the best wine brands in Europe.

Red wines of Georgia

Wine products are called red, which are made from mainly dark varieties with the inclusion of the peel of the berries in the fermentation process. At the same time, a technology must be observed that ensures the transfer of antacids from grape skins to wort. These drinks contain a large amount of tannins, which form spicy aromas.

Georgian wines are not distinguished by a high sugar content, therefore, among them, dry red wine predominates, containing no more than 4 g / l of sugar. Some grape varieties produce semi-dry wine (4-12 g / l) and even semi-sweet (12-45 g / l).

Red dry

Red Georgian wine with a minimum amount of sugar is represented by the following brands:

1. Napaureli. This look is available in two versions - red and white. The production is based on the Saperavi variety. The color of a rich pomegranate, the taste is delicate, the flavor of plum, cherry pits and black currant is clearly felt in the bouquet. Napaurels are aged in oak barrels for two years.
2. Pirosmani. This Georgian brand is a semi-dry wine made from Saperavi grapes, has a rich pomegranate color and tastes like cherry liqueur.
3. Cotehi. This species is produced from the Saperavi variety with complete wort fermentation. The color is moderately red, the taste is velvety. The grapes for this drink are grown in Kakheti along the Alazani River.
4. Makuzani. This brand belongs to table drinks with an aging of at least three years. Makuzani is made from Saperavi grapes. For the first time on an industrial scale, it began to be produced in 1888.

Red semi-sweet

Drinks with a sugar content of up to 12 g / l, that is, semisweet red ones, are made from sweet grapes, the berries of which have a red skin. These include the following brands:

1. Usakhelauri. It is made from the rarely grown grape variety of the same name, which grows in the Tsageri district in Racha-Lechkhumi. Usakhelauri dates back to 1934. Usakhelauri is distinguished by its bright ruby ​​color, delicate strawberry sweetish velvety aftertaste, and has a long aftertaste.
2. Khvanchkara. Produced from Murjuretuli and Aleksandrouli grapes growing on a mountain located near the village of Khvanchkara. It has a dark ruby ​​color, a rich taste range, with hints of raspberry flavor. Khvanchkara is consumed with white poultry meat, eggplants, nuts.The production of this drink has been going on since 1908.
3. Akhalsheni. The color is dark, rich, velvety, the taste is delicate with chocolate shades. Produced since 1958 from Saperavi grapes.

White wines of Georgia

Wines, called conditionally white, are made from different grape varieties in compliance with the fragmentation technology. Light shades of the drink are due to the absence of grape skins. Inside, all the berries have different shades, but they are never saturated red.

White Georgian wines are produced using different technologies and with different sugar content.Georgian semi-sweet wine is often in demand on the market, since it has a delicate bouquet, it is well drunk with fruits and sweets. Dry white wines are most often in demand when consuming fatty meat and fish food with spices. The laconic bouquet of these drinks helps to enhance the perception of hearty dishes.

White semi-sweet

White Georgian wine with a high sugar content is represented by the following brands:

1. Tetra. It is made from the grape of the same name, which is grown in the Ambrolaur region of Georgia.
2. Chkhaveri. It is made from the Chkhaveri variety, which is grown in the western part of Georgia.
3. Alazani Valley. There are two varieties of this wine - white and red. The beginning of this brand was laid in 1977. The basis of the drink is the grapes Mtsvane, Rkatsiteli, Kakheti, Tsolikouri, Tetra. The color resembles straw dried in the bright sun.
4. Tvishi. This drink has been produced since 1952 from the Tsolikauri grape, which is grown in the Riola Gorge. The grapes are harvested by hand at the very peak of their ripeness, when the maximum amount of sugar is concentrated in the berries. Tvishi is distinguished by its versatility of consumption. It can be served with fruits and chocolate, as well as with meat, fish and vegetable dishes.

Dry white Georgian wines

Dry Georgian wine is popular all over the world. The famous Tsinandali, sung in songs, belongs to this category. The following brands are considered the best representatives of this group:

1. Goruli Mtsvane. This drink is made from the Mtsvane grape, which is grown in the vicinity of the city of Gori.
2. Vazisubani. It features a fresh bouquet of aromas and flavors of fruit and honey. Such a bouquet is formed from the interaction of the Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane varieties. The grapes for this drink are grown in the village of Vazisubani in the Alazani Valley.
3. Gurjaani. Differs in straw color shades, harmonious and sophisticated bouquet of aroma and taste. Produced from the Rkatsiteli variety growing in Kakheti.

How to distinguish a fake

Counterfeits are always sold at discounted prices. The shopper, overwhelmed by the prices, does not have time to think about what is in the bottle. If the wines are not natural, then they consist of diluted alcohol, dyes and flavors. In such a composition, the presence of alcohol is strongly felt, and instead of a natural aroma, a person feels a taste of chemistry.

1. In order not to be mistaken, buy natural drinks at brand stores. Always read labels carefully. Georgian wines should be produced in Georgia and nowhere else.
2. Good wines are always poured into concave bottles. Such a container is sealed with a porous cork opened with a corkscrew.
3. Natural alcohol, even long-term, can contain sediment. These are the remains of organic substances, which were converted into alcohol with the help of bacteria. Powdered drinks never contain sediment.

Georgian wines are distinguished by a wide variety of brands and tastes, as well as aromas. Unforgettable shades depend not only on the grape variety, but also on the place of its cultivation, as well as on the technology used and even on the vessels in which the drinks mature.

Delightful Georgian wines made the whole world talk about themselves. Georgia, so colorful and sunny, is rightfully called the cradle of winemaking.

More than 500 varieties of grapes (out of 4 thousand varieties known to the world) growing on the territory of the country once again prove that Georgia is nothing more than a "world center" for the formation of cultural and wild grapes.

History of Georgian winemaking

The optimism and courage of Georgian winemakers are admirable. The vineyards spread throughout the country have been attacked and subsequently liquidated by warlike conquerors. For example, in the fourteenth century, after the invasion of Tamerlane and his hordes, only a devastated and scorched earth was left from the still beautiful vine. The heyday of Georgian winemaking fell on Soviet times.In the USSR, 80% of all vintage wines were supplied by Georgia.

Kakhetian traditional winemaking

Today Georgian wines are famous all over the world for its Kakhetian wine making technology. The essence of this method consists in storing and aging wine in special cone-shaped jugs - qvevri (with a capacity of up to 500 decaliters). Kvevri is buried in the ground, leaving only the opening of the jug on the surface. This immersion allows you to achieve a relatively constant temperature (14 degrees), ideal for fermentation and storage of the must, which is still pressed from grapes with our feet. The impeccable quality of Georgian wine is the result of the unique Kakhetian method.

The names of the best Georgian wines

Dry white Georgian wines (vintage):

"Tsinandali" - dry white Georgian wine
	Tsinandali wine is a light golden color wine with a bright floral aroma and light honey notes. The taste is harmonious, full, soft; the aftertaste is long-lasting and pleasant. It is customary to drink chilled. It is made from Mtsvane and Rkatsiteli grapes. Aging in natural oak barrels is about 2 years. The approximate price is 650-1100 rubles (150-300 UAH)

"Gurjaani" - dry white Georgian wine
	Gurjaani wine has a soft sandy color, with light spicy notes and a delicate bitterness. The grapes and aging are identical to those of Tsinandali. The approximate price is 600-700 rubles (250-300 UAH)

"Rkatsiteli" - dry white Georgian wine
	Rkatsiteli wine is dark amber in color, full of fruity notes and tones of tea rose wine. The taste is extractive, full, with mild astringency. The wine reveals its gorgeous bouquet at room temperature. "Rkatseteli" is produced according to the Kakhetian technology, and then aged in massive oak barrels for over a year. The approximate price is 480-500 rubles (160-180 UAH)

"Tibaani" - white table Georgian wine
	Tibaani wine has a deep amber color, iridescent with a dark golden hue. Subtle and elegant - this white wine has a rich, complex bouquet, dominated by tones of varietal aroma and withered tea rose. The slightly oily taste of the wine pleasantly surprises with its delicate velvety texture. "Tibaani" is made from Rkatsiteli grapes, according to the Kakhetian method.

Red dry Georgian wines (vintage):

"Teliani" - Georgian red wine (table, vintage)

Teliani wine has a dark pomegranate color, with a bright bouquet, saturated with cherry and barberry tones. Soft and velvety taste harmoniously combines with astringency; the aftertaste is long-lasting, royal. This red vintage wine is made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Long aging complicates and enriches the bouquet of the wine, tones of mountain violets and weightless morocco notes emerge in it.

"Napareuli" - Georgian red wine
	Napareuli wine is black-pomegranate in color, with a strongly pronounced varietal aroma and clear tones of red berries. The velvety taste of the drink is dominated by notes of black currant and cherry pits. This wine is aged for at least 3 years. Grape variety - Saperavi. There is also a white wine called Napareuli.

"Kvareli" - Georgian dry red wine
	Kvareli wine has a deep red color with a harmonious and delicate taste. This is one of the first-class Georgian wines, with a complex bouquet of varietal aromas. Made from Saperavi grapes. Approximate price 800-900 rubles

"Mukuzani" - Georgian dry red wine

Mukuzani wine has a dark pomegranate color, with a bright varietal aroma, filled with tones of black currant and cherry pits. To taste, the drink is extractive, full-bodied. A complex, rich bouquet of wine is formed on aging for at least 3 years. This reduces the astringency of the beverage, making the taste more velvety and rounded. Saperavi grapes are the source material. Mukuzani is rightfully considered one of the best wines in Georgia. The approximate price is 900-1500 rubles (160-500 UAH)

"Saperavi" - dry red Georgian wine

Saperavi wine has an intense dark garnet color.The drink has a fresh and strong varietal aroma, in which tones of black currant are pronounced. Moderately tart taste with light bitterness, smoothly flows into a long-lasting pleasant aftertaste. "Saperavi" is an ordinary Georgian wine, extremely popular in the world. It is made from the grape variety of the same name. The approximate price is 500-700 rubles (150-300 UAH)

Red semi-dry Georgian wines (vintage):

"Pirosmani" - semi-dry red Georgian wine
	Pirosmani wine is distinguished by its concentrated dark garnet color and complex structure. With a sense, the pronounced varietal aroma clearly echoes with the tones of cherry liqueur. The drink tastes full, fresh, with a spicy softness. "Pirosmani" is produced from red Saperavi grapes. The approximate price is 600-900 rubles (150-250 UAH)

"Barakoni" - semi-dry red Georgian wine
	Barakoni wine is bright garnet color. The inviting notes of mountain violet and the fresh aroma of varietal tones perfectly balance with each other. The aftertaste is long lasting. The starting material is the grapes of the Mujeretuli and Aleksandrouli varieties.

White semi-sweet Georgian wines (vintage):

Akhmeta is a white semi-sweet wine with a greenish-golden hue and a delicate aroma of flowers with light spicy tones. Soft and balanced taste, excitingly captivates with an elegant long berry aftertaste. This Georgian table wine is made from Mtsvane grapes. Serve exclusively chilled (8-12 C).

Tetra is a semi-sweet white wine made from Rachuli Tetra berries. This white wine has a greenish-golden color and a subtle but distinct aroma of mountain flowers. Summer honey notes and strong grape tones create a harmonious composition of fresh taste. The long soft aftertaste goes well with light dessert and fresh fruit. Chilled to 8-12 degrees, Tetra wine reveals the whole amazing bouquet of flavors.

"Tvishi" is a white semi-sweet wine of light light golden color, the taste is unusually fresh. It should be remembered that semi-sweet wine "Tvishi" opens gradually, so you need to drink it slowly, enjoying every sip. The wine will give an unforgettable pleasure if it is cooled to 12 degrees.

Chkhaveri is a semi-sweet white wine with a delicate, slightly pinkish color. This exquisitely soft drink is drunk only chilled, giving a subtle and floral honey aftertaste. White wine is made from berries of the same name.

Red semi-sweet Georgian wines (vintage):

"Khvanchkara" is a red semi-sweet Georgian wine - the brightest and most ancient representative of Kakhetian wines. Color - juicy garnet with a purple tint. The multifaceted varietal bouquet beckons with tones of raspberry, velvet dark red rose and mountain violet. The velvety taste is unusually harmonious and rich, and the exquisite aftertaste is difficult to describe in simple words. The grape varieties used in the production of Khvanchkara are Mujeretuli and Aleksandrouli.

"Kindzmarauli" is a semi-sweet red wine with a thick dark pomegranate color, enchants with a fresh bouquet of varietal tones, with hints of black currant and cherry pits. The taste is round, full and velvety. Made from Saperavi grapes. It goes well with dessert or fruit.

“Akhasheni” is a semi-sweet wine with a deep pomegranate color. Contains a fragrant bouquet with a fresh melody of red berries, cherries and sometimes red currants. Spicy soft notes are slightly caught in a fresh and harmonious taste with bright varietal tones. The raw materials used are Saperavi grapes.

Fortified Georgian wines (vintage):

"Kardanakhi" is a strong white wine (port) with a deep amber color. On the palate, tones of honey and freshly toasted bread toast are vividly felt. Wine made from Rkatsiteli grapes is aged in strong oak barrels in the open air for 3 years.

Anacha is a strong white wine (Madeira) with rich golden and dark amber color. Mader tones are pronounced in the taste and bouquet of the drink. The finish is extractive and long lasting. Rkatsiteli, a Kakhetian grape, is used in the production. The aging period in oak barrels under the sun is 3 years.

Dessert Georgian wines (vintage):

"Saamo" is a dessert white wine, distinguished by its golden color and delicate aroma of ripe quince with hints of a slightly wilted tea rose. The taste is honey, oily, rich. Raw material - Rkatsiteli grapes.

"Khikhvi" is a white dessert wine with a dark amber color. Varietal aromas with light nutmeg and honey notes dominate the bouquet of the drink. The wine tastes soft and oily. The grapes are the same.

Salkhino is a blended liqueur red wine with a bright garnet color, shimmering with golden highlights. The rich bouquet contains strawberry-quince tones and, at times, creamy-chocolate notes. The oily taste is unusually harmonious. Aging in barrels takes place for 3 years. The source material is Isabella, Dzvelshavi and Tsolikouri grapes.

Which Georgian wine is better to choose?

The world wine market provides buyers with a fairly wide selection. And yet, going for a bottle of good Kakhetian wine, do not be tempted by a wide selection of supermarkets, but look into a specialized wine store. A wine consultant can help you choose a drink that is worthwhile.

By the way, the Georgian people, choosing between white and red wine, often prefer white wine. This is most likely due to the amount of alcohol in the drink. White wine is much easier to drink than red wine, and, accordingly, is much better suited for noisy and long feasts.

If you want to buy real Georgian wine, then pay attention to the products of the Mukhrani or Marani trademarks - the best producers of true Georgian wine of their kind.

An article about Georgian wines - names, region, history, free classification.

decides to go to Georgia for a week or two, to join the history of the ancient country, as well as taste the legendary Georgian hospitality, no less legendary Georgian cuisine, as well as the legendary Georgian wine beyond measure - I will be very happy.

So, before the actual classification of Georgian wines, a couple of general words:
Georgian table wines - do not contain sugar, have a slightly sour taste.
Georgian varietal wines are wines obtained from grapes of the same variety.
Georgian vintage wines - the same varietal, but produced according to strictly established technologies, are aged for at least two years.
Georgian collection wines - the same vintage ones, but after aging in kvevri (special Georgian clay jugs) and bottled for aging for 3-20 years.

The differences by region are:
Imeretian technology wine production is when grapes are pressed together with seeds and twigs, then the twigs are removed, and the juice, peel and seeds are left to ferment.
Kakhetian technology - according to it, the twigs are not removed, leaving the whole mass to ferment for 3-4 months, and then the resulting product is filtered. Compared to Imeretian wine, the difference in technology leads to the appearance of a more astringent and richer taste in Kakhetian wine.

Both technologies differ from how wine is produced in Europe. To simplify the situation, in Europe grapes are pressed without branches, in Georgia - with branches. In addition, Kakhetian wine ferments for 3-4 months, which would be considered unacceptable in Europe. And one more serious difference: all Georgian wines are the result of the refinement of local grape varieties, while winemaking in the USA, Chile, South Africa, and even in many ways in France and Germany is the planting and cultivation of imported varieties.

The cornerstone of the traditional "home" Georgian winemaking is the use of "kvevri" - special clay jugs, shaped like amphorae.

Qvevri

Kvevri is buried in the ground and grapes ferment in it at a constant temperature of +14 degrees Celsius. Under the influence of carbon dioxide, the cap of the pulp rises to the neck of the jug. When fermentation is completed and the gas comes out, it sinks to the bottom, and the qvevri is sealed until spring. This technology is considered the most ancient and correct - although some consider it imperfect due to difficulties with hygiene and unstable temperature conditions. Wine made in this way can only be tasted when visiting Georgian winemakers somewhere in the outback - all the main wineries of the country produce wine using modern technologies using modern equipment.

Traditionally, wine is named after the village where the grapes are harvested. However, at present, for the production of wines of popular brands (for example, khvanchkars) use grapes from neighboring wine regions.

Western Georgia is dominated by white wines, for which they use grape varieties such as "Tsolikauri" in Imereti or "Ojaleshi" in Megrelia. Isabella grapes, which are so popular in Abkhazia and the Russian South, are considered unsuitable for wine production in Georgia - only for chacha. The wines of Western Georgia are, on the whole, noticeably sour than the Kakhetian ones - the wines of Adjara have a particularly sour taste. Approximately in the middle according to this criterion are the wines of Imereti - sour, but not strongly, and the technology of their production in Imereti is a cross between European and Kakhetian.

Georgian red wines - names, classification

Alazani Valley - mass brand of Georgian wine; made from Saperavi grapes imported from all over Georgia. Due to its availability, wine Alazani Valley was popular in the USSR and then in Russia. The downside is the quality that is difficult to predict, since it is not known from which grape the wine is made.

Akhasheni - semi-sweet red wine, has a slightly tart taste. It is produced only at one plant in the vicinity of Gurjaani from Saperavi grapes, harvested exclusively in the area of ​​the village of Akhasheni. In this village, there is a very famous Georgian winery Chateau-Zegaani, which has been operating since the 19th century.

Kvareli - dry red vintage wine. Produced from Saperavi grapes harvested in the vicinity of the village of Kvareli in the Alazani Valley. Real Kvareli is aged for at least three years in special kvevri jugs.

Kindzmarauli - wine "legend" of Georgia, one of the most widespread Georgian wines in the territory of the former Soviet Union. Semi-sweet red wine, produced according to the Imeretian technology (see the beginning of the story), but from Saperavi grapes grown in Kakheti, near the village of Kvareli. Currently, Kindzmarauli wine is produced at several Georgian wineries.

Saperavi - varietal dry red wine, produced in Kakheti. Young wine - bottled in a year, has a tart taste.

Mukuzani - dry red wine made from Saperavi grapes, named after the village in Kakheti, near which it is grown. Mukuzani is one of the very first Georgian wines that began to be produced industrially. Many consider it to be the best Georgian wine, but this is an extremely subjective question. The wine is not considered vintage, but it is aged for three years.

Napareuli - dry red wine all from the same Saperavi, grown in the area of ​​the city of Telavi (eastern Kakheti). Darker than the closest competitor - Mukuzani, tastes like cherry pits or black currants.

Ojaleshi - a rather rare red semi-sweet wine, made from the grape variety of the same name in Megrelia (a region in western Georgia, a neighbor of Imeretia, Guria and Svaneti).

Khvanchkara - according to a fairly widespread opinion, one of the best wines in Georgia.Red semi-sweet (and of a natural type, since it wanders in the cold, at + 4-5 degrees), real Khvanchkara is made only from the grape varieties Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli, growing on two slopes of the mountain near the village of Khvanchkara near the town of Ambrolauri in the mountainous region of Racha. This wine should be kept cold and drunk chilled too. In this respect, other semi-sweet wines (Ojaleshi, Tvishi, Akhasheni, Kindzmarauli, etc.) are similar to Khvanchkara, where the required parameters are maintained using modern refrigeration units.

By the way, at the entrance to Ambrolauri there is a monument to "Khvanchkara" in the form of a bottle.

Georgian white wines - names, classification

Vazisubani - dry white, obtained by mixing Rkatsiteli (85%) and Mtsvane (15%) grapes grown in the vicinity of the village of Vazisubani in the Alazani Valley of Kakheti.

Goruli Mtsvane - dry white wine, made from Mtsvane grapes harvested in the region of the city of Gori in the Shida Kartli region.

Gurjaani - is obtained from grapes of Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane varieties, harvested in Kakheti not far from Gurjaani and Sighnaghi, aged for three years. One of the most famous Georgian wines in Europe. It tastes like wine with a light bitterness and a long aftertaste.

Manavis Mtsvane - another kind of dry white wine from Mtsvane grapes.

Rkatsiteli - one of the most famous Georgian wines in Russia, dating back to Soviet times. Dry, slightly tart white wine made from Rkatsiteli grapes harvested in the area of ​​the village of Kardanakhi. Rkatsiteli - this is a young wine, one of those that "beat not on the brains, but on the legs" - the wine is aged in barrels for up to one year.

Tbilisuri - semi-dry wine obtained from a mixture of up to four grape varieties harvested in the center of Georgian winemaking - Alazani Valley... It is used as an aperitif.

Tvishi - white wine from Tsolikauri grapes cultivated in the Racha region, which is considered by many to be "Mountain Imereti". It is considered a "female" wine for its characteristic fruity flavor.

Tsinandali Is another "pillar" of Georgian winemaking. White vintage wine, obtained from Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grapes grown in Kakheti, near the city of Telavi. There, in the Chavchavadze estate in the village of Tsinandali, is the oldest Georgian winery, founded in the 1830s by Alexander Chavchavadze. Now it is one of the most successful enterprises in the industry, and the prince's estate has been discontinued into a museum, whose exposition consists of a manor house, a park, a chapel where Alexander Griboyedov and Nino Chavchavadze were married, and a tasting room of the winery.

Tsinandali wine is aged in barrels for three years.

Chinuri - white dry table wine, made from the grape variety of the same name. One of the most affordable white wine brands in central Georgia. Currently it is produced according to European technology and is slightly carbonated - like Italian Lambrusco.

Chkhaveri - white semi-sweet, produced in Guria (a region in western Georgia, a neighbor of Adjara and Samegrelo) from the grape variety of the same name.

P.S. I can't help but mention chacha - the legendary Georgian grape vodka. It tastes like Italian grappa, the strength can be up to 80 degrees. It is drunk, despite the strength, very easily, with reasonable use, negative consequences in the morning are rare, and even those are mostly limited to a mild dry land.

For a snack to Georgian wine, I suggest reading an article about traditional Georgian dishes.

Useful articles about Georgia:

What to see in Georgia in 1 week

Sights of Tbilisi: 60 most interesting places of the city!Restaurants, cafes, khinkalnye, wine cellars and bars of Tbilisi: a "delicious" city guideShopping in Tbilisi: where to buy food, wine, souvenirs and clothes25 sights of Batumi: Old Town and Primorsky Boulevard - a lot of photos!Where to eat in Batumi: the best restaurants, cafes, khinkal and bars of the cityWine tasting in Kakheti: author's guide to the best placesTransajar trail: mountains, sun and wine!

Kvariati: beach, where to live and how to get there

Gonio: beach, fortress and many photos!Kobuleti: city map, beach, attractions, accommodation, weather, photoTsikhisdziri: Beach, Petra Fortress & Castello Mare Hotel

How to buy cheap flights to Georgia?

How to book accommodation in Georgia. Prices, specifics, recommendationsLife hack: how to buy good travel insurance cheap in Georgia

I wish you to taste all the best Georgian wines and experience only positive emotions from them!
Your Roman Mironenko

What's dry in the bottom of the bowl?

Pour me a frisky boyOnly drunk wineDissolve with sober water.We are not Scythians, I do not likeFriends, to drink wildly:No, I sing over the bowlOr I am talking innocently.

 A.S. Pushkin

Georgian wine Is not just a drink. This is the most real art that is passed down from generation to generation, from father to son. If you visit Georgia, do not forget to taste Georgian wine as well. Only here, in the homeland of its production, you can feel the divine taste and heavenly aroma of the drink. Only here you will be offered to try a variety of varieties that differ from each other as all people differ from each other.

The name "branded" is equivalent to the definition of a high quality level, "wine of controlled quality by origin", accepted in a number of countries.

White dry vintage wines

Tsinandali.This wine can be considered the most real pride of Georgia. This truly divine drink has an incredibly soft, but at the same time, very full flavor. There is nothing more to add to this wine, and there is nothing to remove from it either, it is so harmonious. After a sip of the drink, a very pleasant taste remains in the mouth, which lasts for quite a long time. Wine of this brand has been produced in Georgia since 1886. At the same time, before bottling, the wine is stored in real oak barrels for at least 3 years. It is this feature of its manufacture that distinguishes the taste of this drink, which simply cannot be confused with anything else.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded ten gold and nine silver medals.

Gurjaani. The wine of this brand is distinguished by one feature - it has its own, unique and such a piquant bitterness, which does not affect its quality at all. This drink leaves behind indescribable spicy notes that remain in the mouth of the most picky wine connoisseur for a long time. This wine has been created in Georgia since 1877, but it is known almost all over the world.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one gold, nine silver and one bronze medals.

Napareuli.The fair sex is very fond of drinking this wine. It has a very subtle and delicate aroma, which is difficult to confuse with other vintage wine. And the taste of this wine is so harmonious that it seems that the Gods of winemaking themselves took part in its creation. The finished drink has a light straw tint, which looks very beautiful in the light of the Georgian sun.

In international competitions, the wine has won one gold, six silver and one bronze medals.

Manavi.This is another vintage wine that is very popular among tourists and guests of Georgia. This wine began to be produced in 1938, and since then the production of wine has not stopped for a day. The drink itself has an incredibly refreshing taste, and it is better to drink it on sultry and sultry evenings in the company of friends. All notes of this wine are in harmonious unity with each other, and leave behind the aroma of tenderness and sweetness.

The wine was awarded three silver medals at international competitions.

Tsitska. This is not an ordinary wine - its aging period ranges from 6 to 7 years. But the wine of this brand of the highest quality is often aged up to 12 years.With this aging, the wine acquires a very strong aroma and unusual taste, which is difficult to confuse with another drink. Produced in Georgia since 1890. After consumption, it leaves an incredible sweet-sounding taste.

Tsolikauri.In the region of Western Georgia, this wine is especially popular. This vintage wine is in no way inferior to its more popular brethren. But they prefer to drink it only in Georgia, it rarely leaves the border of the country. This drink reaches its best development with a very long aging - 20 years. At the same time, it will have an excellent fragrance and euphonious taste.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one silver medal.

Bakhtrioni.The grapes for this brand of wine are grown only in one region of Georgia. That is why this wine is produced, again, only here. It has been produced since 1966 and since then the wine has become a symbol of the Akhmeta region, its homeland. The aging process is 3 years, the storage process itself before bottling takes place exclusively in oak barrels. It leaves a wonderful aftertaste after itself. The aroma of the wine is very delicate, and its taste is incredibly harmonious.

The wine was awarded two gold medals at international competitions.

Tibaani. White vintage wine of the Kakhetian type, which is produced from grapes from the vineyards of the settlement of the same name. The beginning of production is 1948. This wine has a very thick and rich amber color, in a glass in the sun it gives a dark golden glimmer. The taste of this divine nectar is incredibly harmonious, it seems that all components play a major role in it. Aged in oak barrels for up to two years.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded two gold and five silver medals.

Red dry vintage wines

Teliani.This is perhaps the best dry type red wine produced in Georgia. The drink is made from a very famous grape variety Cabernet-Sauvignon. This unusual and extraordinary grape was brought to the country from France at the end of the 19th century, and since then the production of this brand has not stopped for a single day. This truly divine drink has a unique aroma of mountain violets and ripe cherries, and its taste with a barely noticeable astringency sounds like the best music. The wine is aged in oak barrels for three years and only after that is bottled.

At international competitions he was awarded four gold and six silver medals.

Napareuli.This wine has a unique pomegranate hue, and its taste contains a strong aroma of red berries - cherries and currants. The wine has an incredibly balanced taste, it seems that there is simply nothing more to add or subtract from it. Wine is prepared from one grape variety - Saperavi, which is why a hint of the most varietal grapes is felt in the taste. Aged in barrels for more than three years, which provides the drink with a bright taste and incredible harmony of the bouquet.

At international exhibitions, the wine was awarded six gold and two silver medals.

Kvareli.This is a very noble and famous Georgian wine, which is hard not to fall in love with. This wine has a very difficult for perception bouquet, it seems that it has everything - and the unique sweetness of cherries and currants, and the breathtaking aroma of spring trees and summer herbs ... And despite all this, this drink is unusually tasty and in tune with the mood of a person. The wine itself is aged in oak barrels for at least three years, and it is produced from Saperavi grapes.

At international competitions, the wine received three gold and two silver medals.

Mukuzani. This is one of the brightest red vintage wines produced in Georgia. It is made in the region of the village of the same name from one grape variety - Saperavi.Unlike all other wines, which are also produced from this grape variety, and there are quite a few of them, Mukuzani is aged in oak barrels for more than 3 years. Because of this, the taste and aroma of wine have completely unforgettable and unique shades. This wine is best suited for meat dishes.

At international exhibitions it was awarded with eight gold, four silver and one bronze medals.

Kakheti... This table white wine is produced according to a very old technology that is not used anywhere else. The grape pulp is folded into special jugs (qvevri), and then the jugs themselves are buried in the ground. The wine has a unique taste of fruit herbs and a pronounced aroma that cannot be confused with anything. The refined and gallant taste of this amazing wine makes you sip it in small sips to stretch the pleasure ...

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one silver and one bronze medal.

Shuamta... This amber white wine with a color palette from golden yellow to rich dark yellow has been produced in Georgia since 1984. Its production takes place according to the famous Kakhetian method. The taste of this drink is moderately tart, smoothed, which is in harmony with its aroma. And the aroma itself has a bright fruity hue, without which it would be difficult to imagine Shuamta. This wine is a must-try during the wine tour.

Saperavi. Red table wine is made from grapes of the same name, which have been cultivated in Kakheti since 1937. The grapes themselves ripen quite late, which is why this wine has a unique touch of autumn. The color tone of the nectar is pomegranate, its taste is very harmonious and melodic.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded gold and silver medals.

Tbilisuri. This semi-dry white wine is made from several grape varieties. Its color is more straw than amber. Wine has been produced since 1982, and during its production, three stages of production are used. The taste of this wine is unusually soft, delicate and rich, but at the same time it has an incredible coherence in the aroma. This wine is loved by both men and women.

Sachino.This semi-dry rose wine has been produced in Georgia since 1984. It is produced from different grape varieties that grow in the west of the country. It is this composition of the wine, in which there is not one, but several varieties, that gives it a certain sophistication and originality. The wine itself has a very beautiful color, clean aroma and incredibly soft proportionate sweetness.

Pirosmani. Semi-dry red wine has been produced since 1981 from only one grape variety - Saperavi - which is why it has a rich varietal taste. The wine is incredibly beautiful ruby ​​color, and the exceptional conditions of the soil and nature of Georgia give it a special zest that is very difficult to miss. And the wine itself is named after the world famous Georgian artist - primitivist Niko Pirosmani.

The wines of this group correspond in terms of quality to the category adopted in a number of countries - "wines of controlled quality by origin".

White semi-sweet wines

Tvishi. This naturally semi-sweet wine has been produced in Georgia since 1952. Named after the region where the Tsolikauri grape grows, from which this nectar is produced. The color tone of the wine is light amber, and the aroma has a pronounced fruity smell. This wine is incredibly popular in its homeland, in the Tvishi region. Locals consider it to be the best, most beautiful and most beloved.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one gold and two silver medals.

Tetra. Naturally semi-sweet wine has been produced in Georgia since 1945. Wine is made from a grape variety called Rachuli-Tetra, hence the name of the drink.The color of the wine is light - straw, it tastes very pleasant, and its aroma resembles the most harmonious melody. This wine really deserves to be on your table during a wine tour in Georgia.

The wine was awarded two silver medals at international competitions.

Chkhaveri.This naturally semi-sweet Georgian wine has been produced since 1934. Wine is produced from the grape variety of the same name. The taste of the wine is incredibly fresh and pleasant, its aroma has a bright fruity smell. Its color tone is light straw with a slight pinkish tint, which looks incredibly beautiful in a glass. Drink it very slowly, savoring every sip.

In international competitions, this wine has won one gold, four silver and one bronze medals.

Savane. Naturally semi-sweet wine has been produced in Georgia since 1977. In its production, the grapes of the Tsitska variety, which are grown in Imereti, are used. The wine has an incredibly beautiful straw color with a subtle greenish tint. The wine has a traditional aroma of Tsitska grapes, its taste is incredibly rich and very rich. Plus, it has a very pungent sweetness.

Alazani Valley. Naturally semi-sweet Georgian white wine has been produced in Georgia since 1977. Its production technology has not changed at all since that time. It is made from several varieties of white grapes. The wine has a pronounced amber color range and a strong varietal aroma, which distinguish it from all other wines of Georgia.

Red semi-sweet wines

Khvanchkara. The famous natural semi-sweet wine comes from the most beautiful region of the high-mountainous Caucasus - Racha. It is made from only two types of grapes. Khvanchkara has become one of the symbols of Georgia, a visiting card of the country. A characteristic feature of the wine is an amazing delicate rounded taste with a stunning floral-fruity bouquet with velvety raspberry tones. The color is intense dark red.

At international competitions for high taste, the wine was awarded two gold and four silver medals.

Kindzmarauli. This wine belongs to natural semi-sweet red wines and has been produced on the territory of Georgia since 1942. It is made from only one grape variety - Saperavi. Wine of intense dark red color of overripe cherries. The taste of the wine is incredibly light, with wonderful velvety notes.

At international competitions for high taste, the wine was awarded three gold, four silver and one bronze medals.

Akhasheni. Naturally semi-sweet wine is produced near the settlement of the same name. It has been produced since 1958 and since then has not left the first places in popularity. The wine has a dark pomegranate color scheme, and in its aroma you can easily catch notes of exotic fruits. By the way, Akhasheni can be produced only in one region of Georgia. If it is produced elsewhere, it is illegal.

In international competitions, the wine has won six gold and five silver medals.

Ojaleshi. Natural semi-sweet wine has been produced from the grape variety of the same name since 1933. The color tone of the wine is dark ruby, and in its aroma you can feel the notes of fruit.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded two gold and one silver medals.

Usakhelauri. Natural semi-sweet red wine is made from the rarity of the same name. This grape variety is extremely rare in Georgia. The annual yield of Usakhelauri grapes rarely exceeds 3 tons. The wine has been produced since 1934 and since then has been among the leaders in popularity. The wine is distinguished by a unique piquant strawberry note, which gives it a special sweetness.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded two gold and three silver medals.

Alazani Valley. Naturally semi-sweet red wine has been produced since 1977 from different grape varieties. The fruity aroma of the wine has notes of physalis and dogwood. The color range ranges from light red to dark red. The taste is velvety, harmonious with a pleasant aftertaste.

Aisi... This is a sparkling wine that has been produced since 1977. It is made from quite a few commercial grape varieties that are grown in the west and east of Georgia. The color scheme of the wine is very close to rose, and its aroma is difficult to confuse with another drink. The wine has a very fresh and unique taste. It is worth drinking it in small sips and at the same time enjoying every sip.

Atenuri. It is a white wine made from two grape varieties grown in two districts - Gori and Kasp. The color tone of this drink is light straw with a slight greenish tint. It belongs to the type of natural semi-sweet sparkling wines. The wine has a very soft and fresh taste, and an incredibly harmonious bouquet. "Atenuri" is very often on the table during Georgian feasts and meals.

Sadarbazo... Sparkling wine has been produced since 1979. It is made from several grape varieties. The color range of the wine can vary from red to ruby. Differs in a soft fruity taste with a harmoniously fragrant bouquet of aromas. Saturation with carbon dioxide is carried out using the same technology as in the production of champagne. This wine is truly an amazing and wonderful drink.

Terjola.Sparkling wine is made from several grape varieties that grow in the western region of Georgia, since 2005. The wine is bright red in color, has an incredibly clean and very harmonious taste of fresh fruit. Named after the city of the same name, at the factories of which it is produced.

Anaga. High-quality Madeira-type wine is produced from white grape varieties cultivated in Kakheti. The wine is aged for at least three years in open areas in oak barrels under intense exposure to the sun. The color can range from deep golden to deep amber. The taste is distinguished by rich Madeira tones with a long characteristic aftertaste. Wine has been produced since 1925.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one silver medal.

Cardanachs. High-quality port wine has been produced since 1926 from the Rkatsiteli variety, which is grown in Kakheti. The wine is aged for at least three years outdoors in oak barrels under intense exposure to sunlight. The color is thick amber. In the taste, honey tones and tones of freshly baked bread crust are clearly felt. At competitions "Kardanakhi" competed on equal terms with the best brands of high-quality port wines from well-known companies in Portugal.

At international competitions, the wine received eight gold medals.

Kolkheti. Georgian port-type wine. Created from different varieties of white grapes. The color tone is amber. Its taste and aroma are very harmonious and consistent. The fortress is 18 degrees. This wine is often called Georgian cognac. Very often tourists buy such wine for gifts and souvenirs. Produced since 1977

At international competitions, the wine was awarded one silver medal.

Marabda... Georgian port-type wine. Its strength is 19 degrees. It is made from only one type of grape - Rkatsiteli. The color tone of the wine is light golden. Its aroma has a pronounced fruity flavor. The taste of the wine is very melodic and foldable. Produced since 1985

Saamo. Vintage dessert sweet wine has been produced only in Kakheti since 1923 from one grape variety - Rkatsiteli. The aging period is three years. The color tone of the wine is golden, and the bouquet of taste and smell cannot be confused with any other drink. Taste - honey with rich dessert tones. This is a fairly strong drink, since at the exit its strength is 17 degrees.

At international competitions, the wine was awarded four gold and one silver medals.

Salkhino... This is a vintage dessert wine that belongs to liqueurs. It is made from a mixture of Isabella, Tsolikauri and other grapes cultivated in Western Georgia. Kept in barrels for at least 3 years. Salkhino is characterized by a pomegranate color, complex strawberry and quince tones in the bouquet, sometimes with a predominance of creamy chocolate shades. The taste is surprisingly harmonious, with clear buttery and caramel tones. Produced in Georgia since 1928.

The wine has won six gold medals at international competitions.

Khikhvi. This is a white high quality dessert vintage wine made from grapes of the same name. This grape is grown only in one region of Georgia - Kardanakh. This region is known for its particularly favorable conditions for the production of strong and dessert high quality wines. The color tone of the drink can range from light golden to dark golden. It is characterized by a delicate pleasant taste with a well-defined varietal aroma with light nutmeg and honey tones. The fortress is 15 degrees. Produced since 1924.

He was awarded four gold medals at international competitions.

Each region of Georgia will surprise you with a variety of taste, color and aroma of wine!