Ojaleshi grapes, celebrated for their unique qualities, are primarily found in the mountainous regions of Samegrelo, where they serve as the key ingredient in the production of award-winning red dry and semi-sweet wines.
Research suggests that Ojaleshi is one of the oldest grape varieties in Samegrelo. The name “Ojaleshi” translates to “grows on trees” in the local Megrelian language; it is also known in the region as Shonuri and Svanuri. Ojaleshi grapes have been classified as a ponto vine variety, reflecting their distinct characteristics.
French explorer Jean Chardin, during his travels through Georgia, provided valuable insights into Megrelian viticulture, praising the local wines, particularly those crafted from Ojaleshi grapes. In the 19th century, Prince Davit Dadiani of Megrelia established Ojaleshi plantations in the village of Salkhino. His son-in-law, Ashil Murat, further expanded these vineyards, which by 1912 had grown to encompass 16 hectares. That same year, Ashil showcased wine made from Ojaleshi grapes at the Paris International Agricultural Show, where it was awarded a prestigious gold medal.
It is important to note that there is another grape variety called Ojaleshi found in Lechkhumi and Guria; however, its botanical characteristics differ significantly from those of the Ojaleshi grapes cultivated in Samegrelo. Local lore suggests that the Lechkhumi and Guria variety was first cultivated in the early 1900s by landlord Ivan Eristavi in the Chokhatauri District of Guria. Today, this variety is widely grown throughout eastern Guria.
Ojaleshi grapes have a growing season of approximately 245 days, with ripening occurring in the mountainous areas of Samegrelo around mid-November. By the time they are ready for harvest, the sugar content typically reaches between 23-24%, while the total acidity hovers around 8.5-9%. This ideal balance makes Ojaleshi particularly well-suited for producing exceptional semi-sweet wines. The vines usually begin to show signs of harvest in the second year after planting, with full maturation achieved in the fourth year.
Wines crafted from Ojaleshi grapes are renowned for their harmonious taste, delightful bouquet, intense color, and well-balanced ratio of alcohol and acidity. When Ojaleshi grapes are harvested later in the season, they yield a high-quality semi-sweet wine that exemplifies the unique attributes of this remarkable grape variety.