Wine is an alcoholic drink with a complex chemical composition. It is an unstable physicochemical system. The organoleptic qualities and chemical composition of wine largely depend on the climatic and soil conditions of the area where the grapes grew, as well as on the method of its processing. Great value for receiving quality wines has a choice of grape variety that would be ideal for a given area, a given soil.

Since the advent of winemaking, it has been tested and developed great amount grape varieties. To date, more than 4,000 varieties are known wine grapes. Of these, at most a dozen became international. These are the main white and red varieties of Bordeaux and Burgundy, German Riesling, Alsatian Gewürztraminer and the progenitor of many Muscat varieties.

Tens of thousands of people worked every year to harvest the grapes by hand, and it was only in the 1960s, in New York State, that the first mechanical machines appeared to make the work easier. Mechanical harvesting has become widespread in large vineyards, although some regions producing high-quality wines, especially those with steep slopes, continue to harvest grapes by hand.

The first step in winemaking is to add a small amount of sulfur dioxide (SO2) to the crushed grapes or must. So far, nothing has been able to replace the time-tested antiseptic that protects must and wine from oxidation.

If we briefly describe the wine production process, it occurs as follows: good grapes, chokes, and the natural yeast found in the grape skins converts the sugar found in grape juice, into alcohol.

These truisms winemaking has been known for hundreds of years. Great wines appear where nature has been most kind.

Today, every aspect of grape growing and winemaking is controlled to a degree never before dreamed of. The scientific basis of winemaking is used both in regions with traditional winemaking and in small farms. On the other hand, as Professor Emile Peynot from the University of Bordeaux said: “The ultimate goal of modern oenology is the complete rejection of human intervention in the winemaking process.”

According to their color scheme, all wines are divided into white, red and rose. With age, white wines, instead of a straw-yellow color, acquire intense tones and become golden-amber. Red wines and rosés, on the contrary, fade with age. Garnet and ruby ​​colors transform into brick and brownish.

• dry wine (up to 4g/l.)
• semi-dry wine (4-12g/l.)
• dessert wine (12-45g/l.)
• liqueur wine (from 45g/l.).

Tartaric acid, which is a vital ingredient in wine, the secret to its balance and bouquet, has the unfortunate property of forming crystals when it reacts with either potassium (large, sugar-like crystals) or calcium (small, white, dusty crystals). Previously, wine was aged for several years in cold cellars, and these crystals formed deposits on the walls of the barrels known as “tartar.” The crystals have no taste, are completely natural and harmless.

Consumer interest in wine as a subject of discussion and as a drink is growing every year. This growing interest began in the UK and quickly spread throughout the world. Today, in many countries, a lot of magazines and Internet sites about wine are published, wine tastings and meetings with winemakers are regularly held, and wine tourism is developing rapidly.

If you want to buy wine at a level higher than jug, try to do this consciously. You can buy wine for an enamel mug, but there are wines for Baccarat crystal, and there is no point in pretending that they are the same thing. When a wine has a specific place of origin, as opposed to an unnamed wine, it reflects specific soil, climate, culture and tradition. Find new taste sensations and think about them.

What's dry in the bottom of the bowl??
Pour it for me, frisky boy,
Only drunk wine
Dissolve with sober water.

We are not Scythians, I don’t like them,
Friends, drunkenly:
No, I sing at the cup
Or I talk innocently.

A. S. Pushkin

Georgian wine - it's not just a drink. This is a real art that is passed down from generation to generation, from father to son. If you visit Georgia, don’t forget to try Georgian wine. Only here, in the homeland of its production, can you experience 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.

Dry vintage wines

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

White dry vintage wines

Tsinandali. This wine can be considered the real pride of Georgia. This truly divine drink has an incredibly smooth, but at the same time very full taste. There is nothing more to add to this wine, and there is nothing more to take away from it, it is so harmonious. After a sip of the drink, a very pleasant taste remains in the mouth, which lasts quite long time. Wine of this brand has been produced in Georgia since 1886. Moreover, before bottling, the wine is stored for at least 3 years in real oak barrels. It is precisely this feature of its production 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 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. Representatives of the fair sex love to drink this wine. It has a very subtle and delicate fragrance, 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. Ready drink has a light straw tint, which looks very beautiful in the light of the Georgian sun.

At international competitions, the wine 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 wine production has not stopped for a day. The drink itself has an incredibly refreshing taste, and it is better to drink it on stuffy and sultry evenings in the company of friends. All the notes of this wine are in harmonious unity with each other, and leave behind an aroma of tenderness and sweetness.

At international competitions the wine was awarded three silver medals.

Tsitska. It's not really regular wine- its aging period is from 6 to 7 years. But the wine of this brand is of the highest quality and is often aged for up to 12 years. With this aging, the wine acquires a very strong aroma and extraordinary 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 brothers. But they prefer to drink it only in Georgia; it rarely leaves the country’s borders. This drink reaches its best development with a very long aging - 20 years. At the same time, it will have an excellent aroma and euphonious taste.

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. Aging is 3 years; the storage process before bottling takes place exclusively in oak barrels. It leaves a wonderful aftertaste. 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. Production began in 1948. This wine has a very thick and rich amber color; in a glass in the sun it gives dark golden reflections. The taste of this divine nectar is incredibly harmonious; it seems that all components play the main 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 red wine produced in Georgia. The drink is made from the very famous Cabernet Sauvignon grape variety. 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 tartness 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 garnet hue, and its taste contains a strong aroma of red berries - cherries and currants. The wine has an incredibly proportionate taste; it seems that there is simply nothing more to add or subtract from it. The wine is prepared from one grape variety - Saperavi, which is why the taste also has a hint of the varietal grape itself. Aged in barrels for more than three years, which provides the drink with a bright taste and incredible harmony of 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 difficult not to love. This wine has a very difficult bouquet to perceive, it seems that it has everything - the unique sweetness of cherries and currants, and the breathtaking aroma of spring trees and summer herbs... And despite all this, this drink is incredibly tasty and in tune with a person’s mood. The wine itself is aged in oak barrels for at least three years, and 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 area of ​​the village of the same name from one grape variety - Saperavi. Unlike all other wines, which are also made 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 eight gold, four silver and one bronze medals.

DRY ORDINARY WINES

Kakheti. This table white wine is produced using a very old technology that is not used anywhere else. The grape pulp is placed in 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 fragrance that cannot be confused with anything else. The refined and gallant taste of this amazing wine makes you sip it in small sips to prolong the pleasure...

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

Shuamta. This amber-colored white wine with a color palette ranging 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, smooth, which is very harmonious with its aroma. And the aroma itself has a bright fruity tint, without which Shuamt would be difficult to imagine. During a wine tour, this wine is definitely worth trying.

Saperavi. Red table wine is made from grapes of the same name, which have been grown in Kakheti since 1937. The grapes themselves ripen quite late, which is why this wine has a unique note 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.

SEMI-DRY WINES

Tbilisuri. This is a white semi dry wine made from several grape varieties. Its color is more like straw than amber. Wine has been produced since 1982, and its production uses three stages of production. The taste of this wine is unusually soft, delicate and rich, but at the same time it has incredible consistency in aroma. Both men and women love to drink this wine.

Sachino. This pink semi-dry wine has been produced in Georgia since 1984. It is produced from different varieties grapes 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 unusualness. The wine itself has a very beautiful color, pure 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 has an incredibly beautiful ruby ​​color, and the exceptional soil and natural conditions of Georgia give it a special zest that is very difficult not to notice. And the wine itself is named after the world famous Georgian artist - primitivist Niko Pirosmani.

SEMI-SWEET WINES

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

White semi-sweet wines

Twishy. This naturally semi-sweet wine has been produced in Georgia since 1952. Named after the region in which the Tsolikauri grape variety 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. Local residents consider him 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. The 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 is truly worthy of being on your table during a wine tour in Georgia.

At international competitions the wine was awarded two silver medals.

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 aroma. Its color tone is light straw with a slight pinkish tint, which looks incredibly beautiful in a glass. You need to drink it very slowly, savoring every sip.

At international competitions, this wine won one gold, four silver and one bronze medal.

Savana. Naturally semi-sweet wine has been produced in Georgia since 1977. It is produced using Tsitska grapes, which are grown in Imereti. 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 intense and very rich. Plus it has a very savory sweetness to it.

Alazani Valley. White naturally semi-sweet Georgian wine has been produced in Georgia since 1977. Its production technology has not changed at all since that time. Produced from several varieties white grapes. The wine has a pronounced amber color scheme and a strong varietal fragrance that distinguish it from all other Georgian wines.

Red semi-sweet wines

Khvanchkara. The famous natural semi-sweet wine comes from the beautiful region of the high Caucasus - Racha. Produced from only two types of grapes. Khvanchkara has become one of the symbols of Georgia, the calling card of the country. Characteristic feature The wine has an amazing subtle rounded taste with a stunning floral and fruity bouquet with velvety tones of raspberry. Color - intense dark red.

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

Kindzmarauli. This wine belongs to natural semi-sweet red wines and has been produced in Georgia since 1942. It is made from only one grape variety - Saperavi. The wine is an 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 place in popularity. The wine has a dark garnet color, and in its fragrance you can easily detect notes exotic fruits. By the way, Akhasheni can only be produced in one region of Georgia. If it is produced anywhere else, it is considered illegal.

The wine won six gold and five silver medals at international competitions.

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 fragrance you can feel notes of fruit.

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

Usakhelauri. Natural red semi-sweet wine is made from the rare grapes of the same name. This grape variety is extremely rare in Georgia. The annual harvest of Usakhelauri grapes rarely exceeds 3 tons. The wine has been produced since 1934 and has been a leader in popularity ever since. 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 varies from light red to dark red. The taste is velvety, harmonious with a pleasant aftertaste.

SPARKLING WINE

Aisi. This is a sparkling wine that has been produced since 1977. Made from quite a few commercial grape varieties that are grown in western and eastern Georgia. The color scheme of the wine is very close to pink, and its fragrance is difficult to confuse with another drink. The wine has a very fresh and unique taste. You should drink it in small sips and at the same time enjoy every sip.

Atenuri. This is a white wine that is produced from two grape varieties grown in two regions - Gori and Kaspi. 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. A sparkling wine produced since 1979. Made from several grape varieties. The color range of wine can vary from red to ruby. It has 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 has been made from several varieties of grapes 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 fresh fruit. Named after the city of the same name, in whose factories it is produced.

Strong and dessert wines

Anaga. High-quality Madeira 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 sun exposure. Color can vary from rich golden to dark amber. The taste is distinguished by rich Madeira tones with a long, characteristic aftertaste. The wine has been produced since 1925.

At international competitions the wine was awarded one silver medal.

Kardanakhi. 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 sunlight. The color is deep amber. Honey tones and tones of freshly baked bread crust are clearly felt in the taste. At competitions "Kardanakhi" competed on equal terms with the best brands high-quality port wines from famous Portuguese companies.

The wine received eight gold medals at international competitions.

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

At international competitions the wine was awarded one silver medal.

Marabda. Georgian port 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 hue. The taste of the wine is very melodic and complex. 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 of the wine is golden, and the bouquet of taste and smell cannot be confused with any other drink. The taste is honey with rich dessert tones. It's pretty Reviver, since its output strength is 17 degrees.

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

Salkhino. This is a dessert vintage wine that belongs to liqueurs. Made from a mixture of Isabella, Tsolikauri and other grape varieties cultivated in Western Georgia. Aged in barrels for at least 3 years. "Salkhino" is characterized by a garnet color; the bouquet has complex strawberry and quince tones, sometimes with a predominance of creamy chocolate shades. The taste is surprisingly harmonious, with obvious buttery and caramel tones. Produced in Georgia since 1928.

The wine won six gold medals at international competitions.

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

At international competitions he was awarded four gold medals.

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

Not long ago, UNESCO decided to include it in the list of intangible heritage of humanity Georgian way winemaking If throughout the world wort is aged in barrels, then in this Caucasian country, or more precisely in its region of Kakheti, huge clay jugs - qvevri - are used in production. The pulp is put into giant amphoras, two meters high, and then buried in the ground. Rocky soil and sharp fluctuations in the mountain climate create unique Georgian wines. Each variety has its own taste palette, aroma, history. When coming to this sunny, hospitable region, the main thing is not to get confused and choose from excellent and easy good drinks(since there are simply no bad wines here) the best.

Dry vintage

In Georgia, the old Soviet standard is adopted. Therefore, the word “vintage” means the accepted abbreviation DOC, which means “quality control by origin”. Thus, it is noted that the vines for the production of this drink grow only in this region, and nowhere else. This is Georgia. Of the white varieties, one cannot fail to mention the pride of the country and the winner of numerous international competitions, “Tsinandali”. “Gurjaani”, “Tibaani” and “Manavi” are also wonderful.

Vintage Georgians are also beyond praise. Dry “Teliani” won four gold medals and six at international competitions. Here is a vivid example of how ordinary French variety Cabernet Sauvignon vines in a sunny mountain region produce clusters of unusual taste ripe cherries and the smell of violets. “Teliani” and “Napareuli”, “Kvareli”, “Mukuzani” are not much inferior. All these high quality products aged in oak barrels for at least three years.

Ordinary wines of Georgia

These drinks with a small amount Sugars (dry), although not aged as long as vintage ones, and are made from pulp rather than wort, are nevertheless very worthy. "Kakheti" and "Shuamta" undergo a fermentation process in clay qvevri. Saperavi is a local variety of vine grown specifically for these soils, climate, and relief. The clusters ripen late, giving it a touch of autumn. But that's not all.

Semi-dry and semi-sweet wines of Georgia

From the first cohort, we can recommend white “Tbilisuri”, pink “Sachino” and red “Pirosmani”. New European technologies are also used in their production. But for semi-sweet alcoholic drinks, very regional varieties of berries are taken. Therefore, the wines “Tvishi”, “Tetra” and “Savane” (white), as well as “Khvanchkara”, “Kindzmarauli” and “Akhasheni” (red) are considered vintage.

Dessert and liqueur wines of Georgia

Contrary to popular belief that the country does not produce sweets alcoholic drinks, they still exist, and they are very good. "Anaga" tastes like Madeira - dark amber, rich, with a long aftertaste with notes of almonds and chocolate. “Saamo” is easy to drink, although it contains seventeen degrees. Pomegranate-colored "Salkhino" is a typical liqueur wine, just like the white "Khikhvi".

In a word, make a choice and enjoy it!

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

What I see as the purpose of this article: if, instead of drinking powdered rubbish sold under the guise of Italian/Chilean/Georgian wine in Russian stores, one of the readers of the site decides to go to Georgia for a week or two, to join the history of the ancient country, as well as to taste the legendary Georgian hospitality, no less legendary, as well as legendary Georgian wine beyond all 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- wines made from grapes of the same variety.
Georgian vintage wines– the same varietal ones, but produced using strictly established technologies, are aged for at least two years.
Georgian collection wines– the same vintage ones, but after aging in qvevri (special Georgian clay jugs) and bottled for maturation for 3-20 years.

Differences by region include:
Imereti technology wine production is when grapes are crushed along with seeds and branches, then the branches are removed, and the juice, skins and seeds are left for fermentation.
Kakheti technology– according to it, the branches are not removed, leaving the entire 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 tart and rich taste in Kakhetian wine.

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

The cornerstone of traditional “home” Georgian winemaking is the use of “qvevri” - special clay jugs shaped like amphorae.

The qvevri 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 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 regime. You can taste wine made in this way only when you are visiting Georgian winemakers somewhere in the outback - all the main wineries in the country produce wine according to modern technologies on modern equipment.

Traditionally, wine is named after the village where the grapes are harvested. However, currently, for the production of wines of popular brands (for example, Khvanchkars) use grapes from neighboring wine-growing regions.

In Western Georgia, white wines predominate, for which grape varieties such as “Tsolikauri” in Imereti or “Ojaleshi” in Megrelia are used. The Isabella grape variety, so popular in Abkhazia and the Russian South, is considered unsuitable for wine production in Georgia - only for chacha. The wines of Western Georgia are generally noticeably more acidic than those from Kakheti - especially sour taste have Adjara wines. Approximately in the middle according to this criterion are the wines of Imereti - sour, but not much, and the technology of their production in Imereti is something between European and Kakheti.

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 that the quality is difficult to predict, since it is not known what grapes the wine is made from.

Akhasheni– red semi-sweet wine, has a somewhat tart taste. 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 the Chateau-Zegaani winery, which is very famous throughout Georgia, operating since the 19th century.

Kvareli– red dry 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 qvevri jugs.

Kindzmarauli- a wine “legend” of Georgia, one of the most widespread Georgian wines in the territory of the former Union. Red semi-sweet wine, produced using 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 red dry wine, produced in Kakheti. The wine is young - bottled after 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 to be produced industrially. Many consider it the best Georgian wine, but this is an extremely subjective question. The wine is not considered vintage, but is aged for three years.

Napareuli– red dry wine all from the same Saperavi, grown in the area of ​​​​the city of Telavi (eastern Kakheti). Darker than its closest competitor – Mukuzani, has a cherry pit or black currant flavor.

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

Khvanchkara- according to a fairly widespread opinion, one of best wines Georgia. Red semi-sweet (and of the natural type, since it ferments in the cold, at +4-5 degrees), real Khvanchkara is made only from Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grape varieties, growing on two slopes of a mountain near the village of Khvanchkara near the town of Ambrolauri in the mountainous region of Racha. This wine should be stored 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– white dry, obtained by mixing Rkatsiteli (85%) and Mtsvane (15%) grape varieties 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 near the city of Gori in the Shida Kartli region.

Gurjaani– obtained from Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grape varieties, collected in Kakheti near Gurjaani and Sighnaghi, aged for three years. One of the most famous Georgian wines in Europe. The taste is a wine with a slight bitterness and a long aftertaste.

Manavis Mtsvane– another type of dry white wine made from Mtsvane grapes.

Rkatsiteli– one of the most famous Georgian wines in Russia, dating back to Soviet times. Dry, somewhat tart white wine made from Rkatsiteli grapes, harvested near the village of Kardanakhi. Rkatsiteli- this is a young wine, one of those that “hits the legs, not the brain” - the wine is aged in barrels for up to one year.

Tbilisuri- semi-dry wine produced from a mixture of up to four grape varieties collected in the center of Georgian winemaking - . Used as an aperitif.

Twishy– white wine from Tsolikauri grapes, cultivated in the Racha region, which many consider “Mountain Imereti”. It is considered a “feminine” wine for its characteristic fruity flavor.

Tsinandali– another “pillar” of Georgian winemaking. White vintage wine made from Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grape varieties grown in Kakheti, near the city of Telavi. There, in the Chavchavadze estate in the village of Tsinandali, the oldest Georgian winery is located, founded in the 1830s by Alexander Chavchavadze. Now this is one of the most successful enterprises in the industry, and the prince’s estate has been turned into a museum, whose exhibition consists of a house-estate, a park, a chapel where Alexander Griboedov and Nino Chavchavadze were married, and the winery’s tasting room.

Tsinandali wine is aged in barrels for three years.

Chinuri– dry white table wine, made from the grape variety of the same name. One of the most affordable brands of white wine in central Georgia. Currently produced using 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 Megrelia) from the grape variety of the same name.

DRY RED WINES

"KVARELI"- this is a very honorable and famous red dry Georgian vintage wine. Made from the Saperavi grape variety, cultivated in the Kvareli microdistrict (Kakheti Region). Aged for three years in oak barrels. At international competitions the wine received 3 gold and 2 silver medals. Produced since 1966.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: has a dark garnet color with a highly developed varietal bouquet and a harmonious, velvety taste. It seems that the bouquet of this wine has everything - the unique sweetness of cherries and currants, the stunning aroma of spring trees and summer herbs.
• Wine strength: 10.5-12° vol.
• Sugar content: not lower than 21%.
• Acidity: 5.5-7 g/dm3.

"MUKUZANI"- high-quality dry red wine from Saperavi grapes grown in the microdistricts of Mukuzani and Teliani (Kakheti region). A special condition for the production of Georgian wine “Mukuzani” is aging in oak barrels for 3 years. At international exhibitions she was awarded 8 gold, 4 silver and 1 bronze medals. Mukuzani rightfully occupies one of the first places among red table wines. Produced since 1888.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: has a dark ruby ​​color, a pronounced varietal aroma and a complex bouquet. It has a soft velvety taste, pleasant astringency and an excellent harmonious aftertaste. Celebrate a particularly complex bouquet, delicate aroma fruit and powerful extract.
• Wine strength: 10.5-12.5° vol.
• Sugar content: not lower than 19%.
• Acidity: 6-7.7 g/dm3.
• Gastronomic combinations: goes well with lamb dishes, with a side dish of fresh vegetables, as well as with sheep’s cheeses. The wine should be slightly cooled before serving.

"NAPAREULI" - red dry vintage wine from the Saperavi grape variety (2 brands of Napareuli are produced - white and red). A special feature of “Napareuli” is its 3-year aging in oak barrels. At international exhibitions, Napareuli wine was awarded 6 gold and 2 silver medals. Produced since 1890.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: has a dark garnet color, exquisite harmonious taste, rich complex bouquet with pronounced plum tones.
• Wine strength: 10.5-12° vol.
• Sugar content: not lower than 21%.
• Acidity: 6-7.5 g/dm3.
• Gastronomic combinations: goes well with vegetable and meat dishes.

"SAPERAVI"- dry red wine, made from Saperavi grape variety (Kakheti region). “Saperavi” is one of the most famous Georgian wines, distinguished by its tartness and almost purple color. Saperavi wine is a multiple winner of international competitions, which was awarded gold and silver medals, and numerous diplomas, emphasizing the high quality of this drink. It is worth noting that this Georgian wine is considered “long-lived”, unlike most local wines. Perfect wine Saperavi will become only after 10-12 years of aging. It is then that it becomes as rich, thick and viscous as possible. Local residents believe that real Saperavi is a medicinal drink. It is effective in treating wounds, poisonings, lesions internal organs. Indeed, a sip of this miraculous well-aged drink gives the body incredible life-giving power and fills the body with energy. Produced since 1886.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: has an intense, thick dark garnet color with a purple tint. It is characterized by a distinctive taste, moderate astringency and a complex varietal bouquet.
• Wine strength: 10.5-12°.
• Sugar content: no less than 22%. .
• Acidity: 5-7 g/dm3.
• Gastronomic pairings: goes well with savory snacks, spicy or spicy meat with herbs or fresh vegetables, as well as fatty dishes of traditional Georgian cuisine.

"TELIANI" - one of the best table red dry vintage wines. The drink is made from the very famous Cabernet Sauvignon grape variety, cultivated in the Teliani microdistrict (Kakheti region). This unique 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. The wine materials are aged in oak barrels for 3 years in the cellars of the Teliani winery and only after that are bottled. At international competitions, Teliani wine won 4 gold and 6 silver medals. By the Law of Georgia “On Controlled Regions of Origin of Wines” of 2010, the name “Teliani” is included in the list of “appellations” of Georgia and cannot be used by wine producers outside a certain geographical region (“appellation” is a set of requirements for a particular wine produced under a certain name). Produced since 1897.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: has a beautiful dark ruby ​​color, has a unique aroma of mountain violet and ripe cherry, as well as barberry tones. The taste is round, full, unusually harmonious, astringency is combined with velvety and softness; The aftertaste is long and truly magnificent.
• Wine strength: 10.5-12° vol.
• Sugar content: not lower than 19%.
• Acidity: 5.5-7 g/dm3.

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RED SEMI-DRY WINES

"BARAKONI"- semi-dry red table wine made from “Alexandrouli” and “Mudzhuretuli” grape varieties grown in the Ambrolauri region of Georgia (Racha-Lechkhumi region). Produced since 1982.

• Color/bouquet/aroma: the color of the wine ranges from ruby ​​to dark ruby, has fresh aroma with varietal tones and notes of mountain violet. The taste has perfect balance and a long aftertaste.
• Wine strength: 10-12°.
• Sugar content: not lower than 18%.
• Acidity: 5-7 g/dm 3