Top 15 Georgian Grape Varieties

Georgia, nestled at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, boasts a viticultural heritage as rich and diverse as its landscape. With over 8,000 years of winemaking history, Georgia is considered the cradle of wine. This article uncovers the top 10 Georgian wines, each a testament to the country's enduring love affair with viticulture.

Saperavi, originating from the Kakheti region, is a robust teinturier grape variety, renowned for its deep, ink-like color. This grape is a true embodiment of Georgian winemaking tradition, offering wines with a profound garnet hue and complex flavors. Saperavi's profile is marked by intense notes of dark fruits, such as blackberry and plum, often complemented by hints of spice and chocolate, making it a favorite among red wine aficionados.

The versatility of Saperavi is noteworthy. It's adept at producing both dry and sweet wines, each exhibiting a unique balance of acidity and tannins. This balance is key to Saperavi's aging potential, allowing the wines to develop nuanced flavors and aromas over time. Georgian winemakers often age Saperavi in oak, which imparts additional layers of complexity, including vanilla and smoky undertones.

Beyond its homeland, Saperavi has gained international acclaim, adapting well to various terroirs, including those in Eastern Europe, the United States, and Australia. This adaptability showcases the grape's resilience and versatility, making it a valuable addition to the global wine scene.

Rkatsiteli is one of the oldest grape varieties in the world, predominantly cultivated in the Kakheti region. It plays a pivotal role in Georgia's viticulture, offering a diverse range of wine styles. The grape's resilience to harsh climates and its ability to retain high acidity while achieving substantial sugar levels make it highly prized.

Rkatsiteli wines are known for their crisp, refreshing nature. They exhibit a harmonious balance of acidity and fruitiness, featuring complex aromas of green apples, quinces, and white peaches. The traditional Georgian method of fermenting Rkatsiteli with skin contact in qvevri adds another dimension to the wine. These amber-colored wines are slightly tannic and boast intense flavors reminiscent of honey, caramel, and stone fruits.

Internationally, Rkatsiteli has found a home in Eastern Europe and the United States, indicating its versatility and global appeal. Its ability to pair well with a range of cuisines, from delicate fish to spicy dishes, underscores its culinary adaptability.

Chinuri, primarily grown in the Kartli region, is a late-ripening white grape variety celebrated for its crisp acidity and moderate sugar levels. It is revered for producing both dry and sparkling wines, characterized by their floral and herbal notes, often accompanied by hints of yellow fruit and mint.

The grape's adaptability allows for diverse wine styles, ranging from still to sparkling blends. Chinuri's resilience against diseases like phylloxera is a testament to its hardiness, making it a reliable choice for local farmers. The wines produced from Chinuri grapes are perfect for aperitifs and pair exceptionally well with lighter dishes, such as salads and poultry. For those who prefer a more complex wine, amber Chinuri, produced in traditional qvevri, offers additional tannins and complexity, suitable for heavier dishes.

Chinuri is not just a wine grape; it's also a popular table grape in Georgia, valued for its attractive appearance and taste. This dual-purpose nature underscores its significance in the Georgian wine and agricultural landscape.

Tsolikouri, primarily found in Western Georgia, is a white grape variety celebrated for its versatility in winemaking. It is instrumental in creating a range of wines, including dry whites and semi-sweet dessert wines, and even shows promise in sparkling wine production. Tsolikouri's wines are known for their beautiful yellow color, fullness, and unique aroma, often featuring notes of ripe fruits and floral undertones.

The grape's vegetation period and growth strength vary across regions, with late maturity being a hallmark of Tsolikouri. Its high productivity and early harvesting traits contribute to its popularity among Georgian winemakers. Tsolikouri is also resistant to various diseases, making it a robust and reliable choice for cultivation.

The traditional winemaking process for Tsolikouri involves the addition of pomace to the juice, enhancing the wine's maturation and flavor profile. This method results in a distinctive wine that is both rich in aroma and complex in taste, making Tsolikouri a symbol of Georgian viticultural pride.

Mtsvane Kakhuri, commonly referred to as Mtsvane, is a prominent white grape variety in Georgia, particularly thriving in the Kakheti region. Renowned for its aromatic qualities, Mtsvane is instrumental in producing both dry and qvevri wines. The grape's versatility is evident in the range of wine styles it supports, from light and fresh dry whites to more robust and aromatic qvevri wines.

Mtsvane wines are typically marked by floral, fruity, and citrus notes, with hints of herbal and mineral undertones. The qvevri variants, known for their amber color and richer flavors, pair excellently with a variety of dishes, ranging from salads to spicy cuisine. This versatility in wine styles and pairing options makes Mtsvane a beloved choice among wine connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.

The grape's resilience and adaptability to different environmental conditions, coupled with its contribution to high-quality wines, have secured Mtsvane's place in the Georgian wine scene. It's not just a grape variety; it's a symbol of the nation's viticultural heritage, offering a unique blend of history, diverse wine profiles, and adaptability.

Tavkveri, a native Georgian grape, is predominantly cultivated in the eastern and central regions of Georgia, particularly in Kakheti and Kartli. This grape is revered for its versatility in producing red and rosé wines that are known for their easy-drinking nature. The wines produced from Tavkveri are approachable and often enjoyed young, bursting with aromas of cherries, raspberries, and blackcurrants, with occasional hints of balsamic nuances and subtle spicy or earthy notes.

Tavkveri-based reds are particularly noteworthy for their pairing potential with red meat and poultry. The grape's history traces back to a natural selection process influenced by human cultivation, yet its exact birthplace remains elusive. Linguistic analysis suggests that the grape's name describes its bunch shape. Botanically, Tavkveri exhibits strong growth and distinct leaf structure, with functionally female flowers occasionally requiring artificial pollination.

The grape's historical distribution across Eastern Georgia, particularly along rivers like the Tana and Lekhuri, underscores its significance in local winemaking traditions. Tavkveri is often blended with white grape varieties to create celebrated wines like “Khidistauri Tsiteli”.

Shavkapito, a distinctive red Georgian grape, is predominantly grown in the Kartli region. This variety is known for producing medium-bodied, fruity dry red wines, which are increasingly gaining attention. Shavkapito grapes are characterized by medium-sized, conical bunches with moderate density, and the berries are medium-sized, round, and dark blue.

The wines from Shavkapito are typically light cherry or ruby in hue, with berry and herbal notes. They are often softer and more approachable compared to other Georgian reds like Saperavi. The terroir-driven nature of Shavkapito results in diverse expressions, depending on whether the grapes are grown on valley floors or mountain slopes. This variability adds an intriguing layer to the Shavkapito wine profile, making it a fascinating variety for both wine enthusiasts and travelers interested in Georgia's rich wine culture.

Tsitska, an ancient grape variety from Western Georgia's Imereti region, is celebrated for its light and vibrant dry wines, as well as its sparkling wines. The straw-colored Tsitska wines are known for their aromatic profiles, featuring notes of green apple, melon, and lime. These characteristics make Tsitska a significant player in Georgian wine production.

Tsitska's adaptability to various climatic and soil conditions, except for its susceptibility to powdery mildew, is notable. Its high yields and early harvesting potential make it a robust variety for viticulture. The wines produced from Tsitska are distinguished by their fullness and lively character, evolving into tender and harmonious flavors with maturation. Its role in the production of high-quality champagne materials is particularly noteworthy in the hilly regions of upper Imereti.

Krakhuna, native to the Kolkheti valley of Western Georgia, particularly Imereti, is central to the region's unique winemaking tradition. It produces both standard dry wines and traditional qvevri styles, known for their fresh, crisp character. Krakhuna wines range from floral and fruity in their classic dry form to more complex and earthy in their amber-colored qvevri variants.

Krakhuna's botanical and agro-biological profile is diverse, contributing to its distinct wine quality. The grape's resilience against pests and fungal diseases varies significantly across different regions of Georgia. Its substantial yields and high sugar content make it suitable for both table and dessert wine production. The versatility of Krakhuna is underlined by its potential in producing semi-sweet wines and various wine types, including Madera and Portwine.

Kisi, a native Georgian grape predominantly found in the Kakheti region, represents a remarkable story of revival in the wine industry. Known for its versatility and unique flavor profile, Kisi is gaining recognition for its contribution to classic dry wines and traditional Georgian amber wines. Its near extinction in the early 2000s was reversed due to its high-quality wine production, leading to a resurgence in its cultivation.

Kisi wines, often blended with Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane Kakhuri, showcase a range of styles from crisp and bright classic dry wines to fuller-bodied, complex amber wines made in qvevri. These wines are known for their delightful aromas of flowers, citrus fruits, and ripe fruits, often complemented by hints of spices and nuts. Kisi's versatility extends to its culinary pairings, making it a unique and valuable component of Georgian enogastronomy.

Aleksandrouli, primarily cultivated in the Racha region of Northwestern Georgia, is revered for its elegant and fragrant red wines. This grape variety produces wines that are medium-bodied with a deep ruby color, showcasing a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Aleksandrouli wines are known for their aromatic complexity, offering a bouquet of red fruits, blackberries, and subtle spicy undertones.

The variety is often blended with Mujuretuli to produce Georgia's famous semi-sweet wine, Khvanchkara. This wine is celebrated for its rich, velvety texture and unique flavor profile. Aleksandrouli's adaptability to different winemaking styles allows for the production of both dry and sweet wines, each capturing the essence of the Racha terroir.

Ojaleshi, indigenous to the Samegrelo region in Western Georgia, is known for its vibrant and versatile wines. This red grape variety is characterized by its late ripening, which contributes to its rich color and intense flavor profile. Ojaleshi wines typically exhibit flavors of ripe cherries and blackberries, with a pleasant acidity that makes them refreshing and lively.

In addition to still wines, Ojaleshi is used in the production of sparkling and semi-sweet wines. Its versatility in winemaking is a testament to the grape's quality and the skill of Georgian winemakers. Ojaleshi's popularity in local and international markets is growing, as more wine enthusiasts discover its unique characteristics.

Usakhelouri, grown in the Lechkhumi region, is a rare and highly prized Georgian grape variety. Known for its small production, this grape produces exquisite red wines that are sought after for their rarity and distinct flavor profile. Usakhelouri wines are typically light-bodied with a bright ruby color, offering complex aromas of red fruits, floral notes, and a hint of spice.

The grape's name, meaning "nameless," reflects its mysterious origins. Despite its small yield, Usakhelouri is celebrated for its high quality, making it a gem in Georgia's viticultural crown. The wines produced from this variety are often considered collectors' items, cherished by connoisseurs for their elegance and finesse.

Mujuretuli, commonly grown alongside Aleksandrouli in the Racha region, is an essential component in creating Georgia's renowned semi-sweet wine, Khvanchkara. This red grape variety contributes to the wine's deep color and complex flavor profile, marked by notes of raspberry and wild berries.

While Mujuretuli is often blended with Aleksandrouli, it also produces notable varietal wines. These wines are characterized by their bright ruby color and a balance of sweetness and acidity, making them enjoyable and approachable. Mujuretuli's role in Georgian winemaking, particularly in creating celebrated blends, underscores its importance in the country's viticultural heritage.

Goruli Mtsvane, originating from the Kartli region of Central Georgia, is a white grape variety known for its delicate and subtle wines. This grape produces wines that are light-bodied, with a pale straw color, offering a refined and elegant aromatic profile. Goruli Mtsvane wines are characterized by their crisp acidity and freshness, with flavors often reminiscent of green fruits, white flowers, and a hint of minerality.
The grape thrives in the moderate climate of Kartli, benefitting from the region's unique terroir, which imparts a distinct character to the wines. Goruli Mtsvane is particularly valued for its ability to produce wines that can be enjoyed young, showcasing their vibrant and fresh nature.

In terms of winemaking, Goruli Mtsvane is often vinified in a traditional manner, sometimes using qvevri (clay amphorae) to add depth and complexity to the wine. However, it is also suited to modern winemaking techniques, which highlight its more subtle and refined qualities.

Goruli Mtsvane plays a crucial role in the diversity of Georgian white wines, offering a more understated and nuanced option compared to the bolder profiles of other varieties. Its delicate nature makes it an excellent companion to light dishes, seafood, and as a refreshing aperitif. As the Georgian wine industry continues to evolve and gain international acclaim, Goruli Mtsvane is emerging as a variety that beautifully represents the subtler side of Georgia's rich viticultural heritage.

Each of these Georgian wines offers a unique window into the rich tapestry of the country's winemaking tradition. From the robust reds of Saperavi to the aromatic whites of Mtsvane, Georgian wines are a journey through a landscape steeped in history, culture, and unmatched viticultural expertise.