The Cradle of Winemaking: Georgia

Georgia boasts an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, making it one of the oldest wine regions in the world. Discover the rich history, unique grape varieties, and unparalleled cultural heritage of this remarkable country.

Ancient wine vessel used in traditional winemaking at Marani Winery

History

Ancient History

Archaeological evidence shows that Georgians were producing wine as early as 6000 BC. Ancient clay vessels, known as "qvevri", have been used for winemaking for thousands of years and are still in use today. This unique tradition has been passed down through generations, reflecting the deep connection between Georgians and the grapevine.

Fermentation process at Shilda Winery

History

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, winemaking in Georgia flourished. Wine played a crucial role in religious rituals, celebrations, and everyday life. Famous Georgian grape varieties, such as Saperavi and Rkatsiteli, gained widespread popularity and became the hallmarks of Georgian wines.

Fermentation process in a qvevri at Baias Wines

History

Modern History

Despite complex historical periods, Georgian winemaking continued to evolve. During the Soviet era, Georgia was one of the largest wine producers in the USSR. After gaining independence in 1991, Georgian winemakers returned to traditional methods and actively embraced innovations to present the world with unique, high-quality wines.

Winemaking Regions

Georgia is divided into several distinct winemaking regions, each offering unique characteristics and flavors. The Kakheti region is the most famous and largest, known for its diverse microclimates and grape varieties. Other important regions include Kartli, Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi, and more.

  • Kakheti

    Kakheti is the most famous and largest wine-producing region in Georgia, located in the eastern part of the country. It is renowned for its diverse microclimates and fertile soil, which are ideal for growing a wide variety of grape varieties. Key sub-regions include Telavi and Kvareli. Kakheti is particularly known for its traditional qvevri winemaking method, where wines are fermented and aged in large clay vessels buried underground. The region produces both red and white wines, with Saperavi and Rkatsiteli being the most prominent grape varieties. Kakheti's wines are known for their robust flavors, high acidity, and excellent aging potential.

  • Imereti

    Imereti is located in the western part of Georgia and is known for its hilly terrain and humid subtropical climate. This region is characterized by its lighter, more delicate wines compared to the robust wines of Kakheti. Imereti's winemakers also use the qvevri method, but the vessels are usually smaller than those in Kakheti. Key grape varieties include Tsitska, Tsolikauri, and Krakhuna. The wines from Imereti are typically fresh and aromatic, with a balanced acidity and a slightly lower alcohol content. This region is gaining recognition for its sparkling wines and unique white wine blends.

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Grape Varieties

Georgia is home to over 500 unique grape varieties. Among the most renowned are Saperavi, a red grape with a deep color and full-bodied flavor, and Rkatsiteli, a white grape with refreshing acidity and floral notes.

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    Saperavi

    Saperavi is one of Georgia's most renowned red grape varieties. Known for its deep color, the name "Saperavi" actually means "dye" in Georgian. This grape produces full-bodied wines with a rich, dark fruit profile, often featuring flavors of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry. Saperavi wines are also noted for their robust tannins and high acidity, making them excellent candidates for aging. This variety thrives particularly well in the Kakheti region, where it benefits from the diverse microclimates and fertile soil.

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    Rkatsiteli

    Rkatsiteli is one of Georgia's most ancient and widely planted white grape varieties. Known for its high acidity and floral notes, Rkatsiteli produces wines that are crisp and refreshing. The wines often exhibit flavors of green apple, quince, and citrus, with a hint of herbal undertones. This grape is highly versatile and is used in both dry and semi-sweet wines. Rkatsiteli is primarily grown in the Kakheti region, where it is often used in traditional qvevri winemaking methods, adding a unique depth and complexity to the wines.

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    Mtsvane

    Mtsvane, meaning "green" in Georgian, is a highly aromatic white grape variety. It produces wines with vibrant acidity and lush floral aromas, often with flavors of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot. Mtsvane is commonly blended with Rkatsiteli to enhance its aromatic profile and add complexity. This variety thrives in the Kakheti region and is an essential component of many traditional Georgian wines.

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    Tsitska

    Tsitska is a traditional white grape variety native to the Imereti region of Georgia. Known for its bright acidity and subtle flavors, Tsitska wines are typically light-bodied with notes of green apple, pear, and a touch of citrus. This grape is often blended with other varieties to create balanced and refreshing wines. Tsitska is well-suited for sparkling wine production due to its natural acidity and clean finish.

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    Khikhvi

    Khikhvi is a rare and ancient white grape variety from Georgia. It produces wines with a unique balance of floral and fruity notes, often featuring flavors of apricot, honey, and a hint of almond. Khikhvi wines are known for their rich texture and moderate acidity, making them a delightful pairing for both light and rich dishes.

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    Kisi

    Kisi is an indigenous white grape variety from the Kakheti region. It produces aromatic wines with flavors of peach, apricot, and honey, often accompanied by a subtle spiciness. Kisi wines are well-balanced with moderate acidity and a full body, making them an excellent choice for pairing with grilled fish, white meats, and a variety of cheeses.

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Wine Store

Winemaking Process

Traditional Georgian winemaking methods involve the use of qvevri - large clay vessels buried underground. This ancient technique helps to naturally regulate the temperature during fermentation. Modern innovations, such as stainless steel tanks and advanced filtration systems, complement the traditional methods, creating the distinctive Georgian wines.

Cellar with wine bottles at Shumi winery
Qvevri jug von Weingut Shumi

Traditional Georgian Wines Qvevri

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Brands and Wineries

Meet the winemakers behind your favorite Georgian wines. From family-owned vineyards to renowned brands, get to know the people and stories that make Georgian wine special. For example, Pheasant's Tears winery is famous for its commitment to organic and traditional winemaking techniques.

Wineries
  • Giuaani Winery logo with vineyard background, established in 1894

    Giuaani

    Founded in 1894. Located in the heart of Kakheti, Giuaani Winery is known for blending traditional Georgian winemaking techniques with modern innovations. Situated in the fertile Alazani Valley, the winery produces award-winning wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region.

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  • Shilda Winery logo with a view of the winery building and garden

    Shilda

    Located in the Kakheti region, Shilda Winery, founded in 2014, leverages both modern facilities and traditional methods to create a diverse range of wines. Its unique location at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains offers ideal conditions for viticulture.

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  • Dugladze Winery logo

    Dugladze

    Established in 2004, Dugladze Wine Company combines a rich heritage with state-of-the-art technology to produce exceptional Georgian wines. The winery is renowned for its dedication to quality and its innovative approach to winemaking.

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  • Baia's Winery logo with the founder in the background

    Baia's Wine

    Founded by Baia Abuladze, this family-run winery in Obcha, Georgia, combines traditional methods and modern innovations to produce organic wines that have gained international acclaim. Baia Abuladze was recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 for her contributions to winemaking.

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  • Shumi winery logo against the backdrop of vast and rich vineyards

    Shumi

    Shumi Winery, located in the heart of Kakheti, Georgia's premier wine region, blends traditional Georgian winemaking techniques with modern technology. Known for its award-winning wines, Shumi continues to innovate while preserving the rich heritage of Georgian viticulture.

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  • Wine Man logo on red background

    Wine Man

    Founded in 1998 by Beka Jimsheleishvili, Wine Man Winery is situated in Kakheti and blends traditional Georgian techniques with modern technology. The winery is dedicated to producing high-quality wines that reflect the rich winemaking heritage of Georgia.

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  • Marani Winery logo with vineyard and mountain background

    Marani

    With a deep-rooted history in Georgian winemaking, Marani Winery integrates age-old practices with contemporary advancements to produce wines of exceptional quality. Located in the heart of Georgia, the winery is known for its unique and diverse wine selection.

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All Wineries

Cultural Heritage

Wine is deeply embedded in Georgian culture, celebrated in festivals, songs, and daily life. One of the most famous traditions is the "supra", a Georgian feast where wine flows freely, and toasts are an art form. Wine is inextricably linked to Georgian identity, shaping their festivals, music, and everyday experiences.Discover the rich legacy and passion of Georgian winemaking. Whether you're an experienced wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, we invite you to explore the unique world of Georgian wines and savor their unparalleled flavors.

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