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Kakheti
Georgia
Top Subregions: SanioreKakhetiKindzmarauliAkhasheniTelavi
Region Description
Kakheti is a wine region located in eastern Georgia, known for its ancient winemaking traditions and unique grape varieties. The region has a long history of wine production, dating back over 8,000 years. Kakheti is home to over 70% of Georgia's vineyards and produces a wide range of wine styles, from dry whites to full-bodied reds.
Grapes & Wine Styles
The main grape varieties grown in Kakheti are Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, and Mtsvane. Rkatsiteli is a white grape variety that produces crisp, refreshing wines with notes of citrus and green apple. Saperavi is a red grape variety that produces deep, full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruit and spice. Mtsvane is a white grape variety that produces aromatic wines with floral and tropical fruit notes. Kakheti is also known for its traditional qvevri winemaking method, where the grapes are fermented and aged in large, egg-shaped clay vessels buried underground.
Notable Producers
The main grape varieties grown in Kakheti are Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, and Mtsvane. Rkatsiteli is a white grape variety that produces crisp, refreshing wines with notes of citrus and green apple. Saperavi is a red grape variety that produces deep, full-bodied wines with flavors of dark fruit and spice. Mtsvane is a white grape variety that produces aromatic wines with floral and tropical fruit notes. Kakheti is also known for its traditional qvevri winemaking method, where the grapes are fermented and aged in large, egg-shaped clay vessels buried underground.
Fun Fact about Kakheti
Georgia is considered to be the birthplace of wine, with evidence of winemaking dating back over 8,000 years. The traditional qvevri winemaking method used in Kakheti has been recognized by UNESCO as a part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Top Wines from Kakheti
Teleda - Orgo Saperavi
Teleda - Orgo
Teleda - Orgo Saperavi is a captivating red wine that showcases the best of Georgian winemaking. Produced in the renowned appellation of Kakheti, this wine is crafted from Saperavi grapes grown in carefully selected vineyards. The vineyard features a unique terroir, with its mineral-rich soil and optimal sun exposure, resulting in grapes of exceptional quality. The winemaking process involves traditional methods, including fermentation in qvevri, large clay vessels buried underground. This technique imparts a distinct character to the wine, with its deep ruby color, robust tannins, and vibrant acidity. Teleda - Orgo Saperavi is a bold and expressive wine, perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Georgian winemaking.
Read more Food Pairing:
Game
Pork
Beef
Marani Kindzmarauli
Marani
Marani Kindzmarauli is a red wine produced by Marani Winery in the Kindzmarauli appellation of Georgia. The vineyards are located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, where the unique microclimate and soil composition create ideal conditions for growing the Saperavi grape variety. The winemaking process involves traditional methods, including fermentation in qvevri (clay vessels) and aging in oak barrels. The resulting wine is a deep ruby color with aromas of ripe red fruit and hints of spice. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a balanced acidity and soft tannins, making it a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Marani Kindzmarauli is a great example of the high-quality wines that Georgia has to offer.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fruit
Beef
Cheese
Marani Tsinandali
Marani
Marani Tsinandali is a distinguished offering from the renowned Kakheti region in Georgia, hailing specifically from the Tsinandali Specific Viticulture Area (SVA). Its allure lies in its meticulous crafting process and exceptional varietal composition, predominantly Rkatsiteli (80%) and Mtsvane (20%). Harvested at peak maturity by hand at the end of September and early October, the grapes undergo a gentle journey from vineyard to bottle. After being softly de-stemmed and macerated on skins for 8 hours, the juice is slowly fermented in stainless steel tanks at precisely controlled temperatures. Thirty percent of the wine is aged in oak barrels for four months, imparting depth and complexity. The resulting wine, released in September following the vintage year, boasts a harmonious blend of flavors and a distinctive character, emblematic of its moderate continental climate and the expertise of its producers.
Read more Food Pairing:
Chicken
Pork
Vegetable
Asian Food
Pizza
Noodle
Thai
Kimchi
Potato
Schnitzel
Corn
Appetizer
Marani Akhasheni
Marani
Marani Akhasheni is a distinguished wine hailing from the Kakheti region in Georgia. Sourced exclusively from the Akhasheni Specific Viticulture area (SVA), situated on the north-facing bank of the Alazani River, this wine embodies the uniqueness of its terroir. Crafted from 100% Saperavi grapes, the vineyard yields at 8 tons/hectare. This medium-sweet red wine is meticulously produced. Grapes undergo manual harvesting at optimal maturity, followed by a gentle de-stemming and crushing process. Controlled-temperature fermentation in stainless steel tanks, managed by cultural yeast strains, ensures a delicate balance. Délestage and remontage techniques guide skin and cap management during 5-7 days of maceration. To preserve natural sweetness and freshness, fermentation is halted by cooling, and the wine is kept at around 0°C before bottling. Akhasheni stands as a testament to Georgian winemaking excellence, offering a unique expression of Saperavi in a medium-sweet, vibrant red.
Read more Food Pairing:
Chocolate Dessert
Dessert
Nuts
Dila-o Rkatsiteli - Mtsvane Amber Dry
Dila-o
Dila-O Rkatsiteli - Mtsvane Amber Dry is a distinctive Georgian orange wine. Hailing from the Kakheti region, this wine is a harmonious 50/50 blend of Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane grapes, known for their unique characteristics. What sets it apart is the traditional qvevri fermentation with indigenous yeast and minimal sulfite additions, attesting to its commitment to natural winemaking. With an approachable one-month skin contact, this cuvée strikes a balance, offering a lighter, fresher style. This amber-hued wine provides an excellent introduction to the world of Georgian orange wines, showcasing the country's ancient winemaking techniques and the vibrant interplay of flavors from the qvevri fermentation.
Read more Food Pairing:
Tuna And Swordfish
Duck And Goose
Pork