Rtveli, The Traditional Grape Harvest

In the heart of Georgia, a country with a rich heritage of viticulture, the annual grape harvest, known as Rtveli, unfolds as a vibrant testament to the nation's winemaking traditions. This article delves into the intricate details of Rtveli, exploring its cultural significance, traditional practices, and the unique methodologies that contribute to the fame of Georgian winemaking. A blend of tradition and celebration, Rtveli not only signifies the gathering of grapes but also a communal spirit, marked by feasts, music, and the continuity of age-old practices. This exploration serves as a guide for travelers and wine enthusiasts alike, offering insights into a tradition that’s an integral part of Georgian life and an unmissable experience for visitors during the harvest season.

Rtveli, the Georgian grape harvest, is an event steeped in tradition and communal joy. It's a time when the entire nation, from wine cellars to vineyards, pulsates with activity and celebration. The rituals encompassing Rtveli are not just about picking grapes; they are deeply intertwined with Georgian culture, featuring songs, food, and a spiritual fervor. This period, often starting in September and stretching to December, involves meticulous preparation, including the cleaning of Qvevris (clay vessels for wine fermentation) and the maintenance of wine cellars. It’s a period that echoes the historical depth of Georgian winemaking, a craft that has shaped the national identity over millennia.

The timing of Rtveli, deeply influenced by lunar observations, highlights the Georgian knack for harmonizing agricultural practices with nature. The careful selection of harvest dates, based on weather patterns and the lunar calendar, ensures the optimal sugar content in grapes, crucial for quality wine production. This practice, encapsulating the phrase “there is a lot of sun in good wine,” underlines the importance of sunlight in cultivating the finest grapes. Rtveli's schedule, from the Rkatsiteli harvest in Kakheti to the Chkhaveri harvest in Guria and Ajara, demonstrates the region's adeptness at aligning human endeavor with the rhythms of nature.

In Georgia, winemaking extends beyond commercial wineries to encompass family traditions. Rtveli is a time when families and communities come together, symbolizing unity and collective effort. The grape picking, starting early in the morning, is a family affair, with members young and old participating in the harvest. The freshly picked grapes are then pressed the same day using a satsnakheli, a traditional press, often foot-operated to prevent damage to the stems, which can impact the wine's flavor. This process, favoring traditional methods over modern machinery, showcases the Georgians’ respect for traditional winemaking techniques.

Rtveli is as much about the harvest as it is about celebration. The grape stomping, accommodation of grape must in qvevris, and the setting of a supra (a traditional Georgian feast) are integral parts of the harvest. The feast varies by region, offering an array of local delicacies, from tone bread in the East to khachapuri in the West. This festive spirit, accompanied by Georgian polyphonic songs and dances, elevates Rtveli from a mere agricultural activity to a celebration of Georgian culture and hospitality.

Post-harvest, the focus shifts to fermenting the grape must, an intricate process requiring constant attention. The winemakers engage in regular stirring to ensure proper fermentation, maintaining the right cellar temperature. This period of anticipation culminates in spring, with the tasting of the new wine, a moment laden with emotion and pride. This cycle of preparation, celebration, and anticipation not only underscores the technical aspects of winemaking but also the emotional connection Georgians have with their wine.

Rtveli is more than a grape harvest; it's a living tradition that captures the essence of Georgian culture and winemaking. With roots dating back to ancient times, Rtveli stands as a vibrant symbol of Georgia's enduring relationship with wine. The festival, integrating labor, celebration, and communal spirit, is a compelling experience for travelers and wine lovers. It’s a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the soul of Georgian winemaking and the warmth of its people, making it an essential experience for anyone visiting Georgia during the harvest season.