Georgia’s winemaking tradition stretches back several millennia, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Today, Georgian wines have gained international recognition, celebrated for their distinctive flavors and the unique methods of production that have been passed down through generations. The secret to their success lies in the use of high-quality endemic grape varieties and the traditional qvevri winemaking techniques that define Georgian viticulture.
To date, Georgian viticulturists have cultivated over 500 different grape varieties, resulting in a remarkable diversity of wines, including red, white, rosé, amber, and even sparkling varieties. Georgian wines are renowned for their subtle aromas and the fresh, vibrant character of the grapes from which they are made. For instance, Mtsvane, a green-tinted wine crafted from high-quality grapes, is best enjoyed fresh to fully appreciate its unique flavor profile.
The distinctiveness of many Georgian wines is closely linked to their geographical origins. Each region of Georgia cultivates its own grape varieties, leading to a wide array of flavors and styles. Atenuri, a sparkling wine made from the ancient Chinuri and Gorouli Mivane grape varieties, hails from the historic Ateni Gorge in the Kartli region. Meanwhile, the Kakheti region, which produces over 75 percent of Georgia’s grapes, is celebrated as the heart of Georgian winemaking. It is particularly famous for its robust red wines made from Saperavi and Cabernet grapes, as well as its elegant white wines crafted from Rkatsiteli and Khikhvi grapes.
The western regions of Georgia—such as Imereti, Mingrelia, Guria, Adjara, and Racha-Lechkhumi—are known for their vintage wines made from unique local grape varieties like Alexandrouli, Tsolikouri, Tsulukidzis Tetra, Usakhelouri, Odjaleshi, Mudjuretuli, and Orbeluri Ojaleshi. Racha-Lechkhumi is particularly noted for producing the high-quality semisweet wine Saterne, along with both table and sparkling wines. The village of Khvanchkara is famous for its namesake wine, which is celebrated worldwide. Another distinguished variety is Ojaleshi, native to Megrelia, which rivals some of the finest wines from France.
Due to its rich winemaking heritage, wine production in Georgia is more than just an industry; it is a cherished cultural practice. Many families create homemade wines that rival the best commercial brands. These wines are often stored in qvevri, large earthenware jugs that are buried underground for fermentation, producing the renowned Georgian qvevri wine. Wine corking and tasting events are significant family gatherings, often filled with joy and celebration.
Here are some of the most celebrated Georgian wine varieties, cherished both locally and internationally:
Tsinandali
This exquisite white wine stands as a testament to Georgian winemaking pride. It features a light straw color, a delicate fruity bouquet, and a smooth, refined taste. Tsinandali has been a staple in Georgian winemaking since 1886.
Akhasheni
A premium red semisweet wine, Akhasheni captivates with its bold, fragrant bouquet and deep pomegranate hue, complemented by subtle hints of chocolate. It has been produced in Georgia since 1958.
Kindzmarauli
Renowned as one of Kakheti’s flagship wines, Kindzmarauli is a high-quality red semisweet wine characterized by its intense color reminiscent of overripe cherries and a velvety, mild taste.
Saperavi
Perhaps the most celebrated Georgian wine among international sommeliers, Saperavi is a dry red variety known for its opaque incarnadine hue. It has been produced in Georgia since 1886.
Tbilisuri
This semidry white wine exhibits a light straw color and a sweet-and-sour profile, featuring the subtle aroma of young grapes.
Tvishi
Hailing from the Rioni Valley in the western region of Racha, Tvishi is a semisweet wine with a light amber hue, featuring a fruity bouquet and a soft palate.
Kisi
A rare amber wine that ranks among Georgia’s top five varieties, Kisi is exclusively crafted from Kisi grapes, sourced from vineyards that are at least 50 years old. This wine is aged on its skins, resulting in a unique profile that features intriguing notes of smoked pork and wood spice.
Kakheti
This natural dry amber wine has been produced in Georgia since 1948. Kakheti wine is distinguished by its golden color, full-bodied character, and a nose rich in fruity notes.
Alazani Valley (White)
The white variety from the Alazani Valley yields a semisweet wine characterized by its maize hue, aromatic bouquet, and mild fruity palate, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Alazani Valley (Red)
Similarly, the red variety from the Alazani Valley produces a semisweet wine with a ruby tint and hints of wild berries. Both the red and white varieties have been crafted in Georgia since 1977.
Napareuli
This dry amber wine showcases a harmonious bouquet with soft fruity tones and is typically made using European techniques. It is produced from Khatsiteli grapes grown on the left bank of the Alazani River, where the mild climate contributes to a softer yet complex flavor profile.
Tsolikouri
A unique varietal white wine from western Georgia, Tsolikouri is recognized for its characteristic light barley hue. Produced in Imereti using European methods, it typically undergoes fermentation for at least two years in oak casks, allowing it to develop its complex flavors.
Kvanchkara
Crafted from the Alexandrouli and Jushuretuli grapes grown on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus, Kvanchkara is a semisweet wine known for its striking ruby color and well-developed bouquet. This wine has become a cherished favorite among wine enthusiasts.