Shavkapito

Shavkapito: A Georgian Native Shavkapito is a grape variety native to Georgia, with a variety of applications in both the production of table wines and traditional Georgian wines. This mid ripening variety is characterized by its thick-skinned berries and intense color, as well as its ability to withstand high alcohol levels.

Shavkapito grapes are dark-skinned, with a deep blue-black color when fully ripe. The aromas of the wines made from this variety are more on the red fruited side. The wines also show a certain smokey hint and spice.

Shavkapito is primarily grown in the Georgian regions of Kartli and Kakheti. Shavkapito is a low-yielding variety that is well-suited to dry climates. The grapes are hand-harvested, and the wines are typically vinified without oak, though some examples with oak or vinified in quevri do exist. Shavkapito is used to make many different types of Georgian wines, including semi-dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. The wines produced from this variety tend to be full-bodied and red-fruited with some smokey hints. Shavkapito wines pair well with a variety of dishes, including roast lamb, grilled meats, and cheeses. The wines also go well with dishes that are spiced with pepper, such as khashlama or kharcho.

Shavkapito is one of the recently rediscovered varieties with about 10ha in production only.