As a curious wine lover, I’m always seeking out unique wines from regions I’ve yet to explore. My first taste of Georgian wine came at the 2023 World Amphora Day event at Rocim in Alentejo, Portugal. There, I sampled a qvevri-fermented wine, which left a lasting impression with its earthy complexity and historical significance. That experience sparked my interest in learning more about Georgia, the birthplace of winemaking, and its rich diversity of indigenous grape varieties. Recently, I had the chance to sample three Georgian red wines that highlighted the country’s unique terroir and traditions.
Georgia: The Cradle of Wine
Georgia’s winemaking legacy spans 8,000 years, earning it the title “the cradle of wine.” This small country, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts a winemaking culture as diverse as its landscapes. The Kakheti region, Georgia’s primary wine-producing area, is a sun-drenched valley known for nurturing Saperavi, the country’s flagship red grape. In contrast, regions like Racha-Lechkhumi in the northwest enjoy cooler, wetter climates ideal for growing grapes like Aleksandrouli and Dzelshavi.
Georgia’s primary grape-growing regions are nestled in diverse microclimates influenced by the Caucasus Mountains to the north and the Black Sea to the west. Kakheti, the most prominent region, is known for its sunny, dry valleys ideal for ripening Saperavi, Georgia’s most famous red grape. Other regions, like Racha-Lechkhumi in the northwest, offer cooler, wetter conditions, perfect for growing grapes like Aleksandrouli and Dzelshavi. The combination of fertile soils, ancient winemaking traditions, and a climate
This Article was originally published on ENOFYLZ Wine Blog
