Georgian wine guide: Art and Culture

We invite you to the enchanting world of Georgian wine!

A feast in Sakartvelo implies an abundance of this drink. There is no holiday where red, white, green, or rose wine is not poured into glasses. Especially at a wedding! Therefore, if you are planning to celebrate your marriage in Georgia, our article will help. You will understand what exactly makes Georgian wine so special, and learn to understand the variety of varieties, production methods, and companion crops. And easily make the right choice for your wedding!

Georgia is a country with rich wine-making traditions that are over 8000 years old. It was here that the oldest find of grape seeds was discovered, dating back to the 5th-6th millennium BC. Thanks to unique grape varieties, traditional winemaking methods, and a vibrant cultural heritage, Georgian wines have gained international recognition.

Wine regions of Georgia

Each with its microclimate, soil composition, and traditions of growing grapes.

• Kakheti, produces a wide range of wines, including the famous Saperavi and Rkatsiteli varieties.

• Kartli is located near the capital Tbilisi, famous for its red wines, in particular, from the local Shavkapito grape variety.

• Imereti in western Georgia is known for its refreshing white wines made from the Tsolikouri, Tsitska, and Krakhuna grape varieties.

• Racha-Lechkhumi is a mountainous region with aromatic white wines Khikhvi and Tetra.

• Samegrelo, located near the Black Sea, is famous for its unique red wines made from the Otskhanuri Sapere grape variety.

Traditional grape varieties

• Saperavi: rich and full-bodied wines with a fruity taste are obtained from red grapes.

• Rkatsiteli: a versatile white grape variety with high acidity and flavors ranging from crisp green apples to tropical fruits.

• Kisi: an amber-colored grape variety that produces complex, aromatic wines with hints of dried fruits, honey, and spices.

• Mtsvane: this variety produces elegant white wines with aromas of green herbs, citrus, and stone fruits.

Production technologies

One of the most unique features of Georgian winemaking is the use of a large qvevri clay amphora to ferment and store wine in the ground. It's a traditional method and has been passed down from generation to generation. It gives Georgian wines a special taste and aroma.

Georgian winemaking is currently undergoing exciting changes and innovations. Georgian wineries are increasingly introducing modern technologies into the wine production process. For example, the latest temperature control and automation systems, allows you to more accurately monitor the process of fermentation and maturation of wine. Also, many Georgian wineries are switching to organic and biodynamic winemaking, refusing chemical fertilizers and pesticides. It allows you to preserve the naturalness and uniqueness of the grapes, as well as create environmentally friendly and healthy wines.

Our recommendations for choosing and serving Georgian wine at a wedding

Our only and main advice for choosing wine is to trust your taste, try and experiment!

Regarding serving, here are some important points from us:

• Consider serving temperature: red wine is usually served at room temperature, white wine chilled, and sparkling wine cold.

• Pairing wine with food. Seafood or salads are paired with white wines. Meats or cheeses go best with red wines. Wine should emphasize and complement the taste of the dish.

• Hear guests' preferences, and be sure to consider any allergies or dietary restrictions.

• Georgian wine is a harmonious combination of art and culture that will perfectly complement your celebration. Together with varieties, a rich history, and traditions of production, it carries a special symbolism and aesthetics. We hope this guide will help you get comfortable in the world of Georgian wines and make your wedding even more unique.

Enjoy the choice of wine and use it to create an unforgettable atmosphere at your wedding!