ORIGIN STORY: Georgia’s wines take you on a wild but enjoyable ride
As with anything you should start at the beginning. And Georgia’s long history of wine – it was invented here, 8,000 years ago – is as rich and complex as they come, a whole universe to unpack.
Georgia boasts a storied wine history that dates back a staggering 8,000 years, making it a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts seeking an unparalleled experience. The country is home to over 40 indigenous grape varieties cultivated in 26 micro-climates, resulting in a staggering 500 grape varieties and a blend of traditional and modern winemaking techniques.
Unlike many Western wines, Georgian wines are produced using a mix of European methods and traditional methods involving clay pots called qvevri. These qvevri wines are characterized by their deep structure, dryness, earthy flavors, and tannins, often resulting in a astringent taste with intense flavors of dried fruit and a chalky grip. These wines can also be highly astringent with a strong tannic quality and unusual flavors.
The orange wine, or amber wine, is a unique product of Georgian winemaking. White grapes are used in red wine methods, resulting in a wine with bold, tea-like tannins and the structure of a red wine. Common flavors include dried fruit, nuts, minerality, and aromatic notes.
Georgian red wines are known for their full-bodied nature and deep, bold flavors of dark cherry, dark plum, spice, and leather. These wines pair beautifully with Georgian cuisine, particularly rich, barbequed meats and strong cheeses.
The winemaking process in Georgia is an artisanal affair, often conducted in a rustic setting and steeped in tradition. Visitors to wine estates can expect a more laid-back, authentic experience, where they'll be served by the winemaker or owner themselves. Notable boutique winery Vazis Xidi, or "wine bridge," in the Imereti wine region, combines tradition with innovation, using both qvevri and European methods to create unique blends of Georgian Chardonnays, Merlots, and Cabernet Sauvignons, as well as locally grown varietals.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
