Traditional Georgian winemaking
Burying the qvevri in the ground ensures that the optimal temperature is maintained for aging the wine. The production process involves fermenting grape must together with the skins, seeds and stems for a period of several weeks to several months. This gives Georgian wines a unique character and unique taste. Most contemporary Georgian winemakers combine tradition with modernity and offer wine produced using both classical methods and the qvevri method.
Basic Georgian wine regions
There are several basic wine regions in Georgia with unique climatic and geographical features.
- Kakheti – The most important wine region, responsible for approximately 70%. wine production in Georgia. Known for wines made using the qvervi method, especially the Saperavi grape variety. The region is divided into micro-regions such as Telavi, Kvareli, Mukuzani and Tsinandali, which are known for their unique wines.
- Kartli – A region in central Georgia, known for its sparkling wines and wines produced using the traditional method. Wines from this region, such as Atenuri, are characterized by a delicate taste and aroma.
- Imereti – A region with diverse climatic conditions known for Tsitska and Tsolikouri wines. Wines from this region are often milder and fruitier.
- Racha – Lechkhumi – A small but valued region, famous for semi-sweet Khvanchkara wines produced from the Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli varieties. The region is also known for its Tvishi wines, which are semi-sweet.
- Samegrelo and Guria – These are coastal regions, known for Chkhaveri and Ojaleshi wines. Wines from these regions are characterized by unique taste and aroma resulting from unique climatic and soil conditions.
Georgian grape varieties
There are almost 530 local grape varieties in Georgia. The most famous are:
- Rkatsiteli – a white variety used to produce classic and qvevri wines. It is characterized by a delicate taste and aroma of citrus fruits.
- Saperavi – a red variety with high aging potential, used to produce dry and semi-sweet wines. Wines produced from Saperavi have a deep color and intense flavor.
- Mtsvane Kakhuri – white variety with characteristic fruit and floral aromas. Wines of this variety are fresh and aromatic.
- Khikhvi – a white variety that produces wines with intense aromas of dried fruit and nuts. These wines are full-bodied and rich in flavor.
The importance of wine in Georgia and modern winemaking
Wine is an integral part of Georgian national identity. Supra, a traditional Georgian feast, is an integral part of social life, and the tamada (master of ceremonies) plays a key role in giving toasts. Georgians believe that wine is a sacred drink and the vine is a symbol of life and faith. Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, had a cross made of vine branches, which emphasized the importance of wine in Georgian culture and religion.
Currently, Georgian winemaking is experiencing a renaissance, more and more winemakers are returning to traditional production methods (qvevri), and Georgian wines are gaining recognition on international markets. Wine is an important element of the Georgian economy, and the government supports the development of winemaking through initiatives such as the protection of native grape varieties and the promotion of exports
Interest in Georgian wines is growing in Poland
Poles' interest in Georgian wines is growing. According to data from the Georgian National Wine Agency, over 2 million liters of wine were exported from Georgia to Poland in the first four months of 2024. The increase compared to the same period in 2023 is 17%. in value and 21 percent in an amount.
source: Georgian National Wine Agency
