When you mention Georgian wine, the first thing that comes to mind is the province called Kakheti. An incredible amount of natural, quality wine is produced and stored here. The region boasts around four hundred grape varieties, including the famous Saperavi and Rkatsiteli.
Even back in Soviet times, these varieties were scattered across the countries of the former USSR. Only a few people knew about this in Georgian wine boutiques. As we strolled through the shops in Tbilisi, we were often offered to taste their wines. Everywhere we went, we heard, “Try this, Georgia’s pride—Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. You won’t find them anywhere else!” – really?
But here’s the thing. These two representatives are cultivated in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Moldova, Chile, and Australia. However, that doesn’t stop them from being considered native varieties of Kakheti.
Saperavi is a grape variety used to make red wine. It has a dense body and aroma of red berries. This variety got its name because of its red-skinned and fleshed berries. Translated from Georgian, it means “painter.” It pairs well with Georgian meat dishes. By the way, it’s from this grape that Georgia’s legendary wine, Kindzmarauli, is made.
Let me tell you the story of the origin of this wine for those who haven’t heard it before.
Kindzmarauli is a wine controlled by origin. Only wine produced in a particular area can bear this name. About three hundred hectares of unusual land are located in the Kvareli municipality. The soil has a unique composition: gravel and stones with a chalky coating. Add to this the microclimate of the Alazani and Duruji rivers, and you have the simple recipe for the legendary Kindzmarauli wine.
In ancient times, Georgia was invaded by the Persians. The people, due to their religious views, were negatively inclined towards alcohol and cut down all the vineyards. In their place, Georgians started to grow herbs, including cilantro (pronounced in USSR as ‘kinza’). The Persians left, and the vineyards returned. But now, it’s a completely different land! These taste qualities are still appreciated in Kindzmarauli wine to this day.
We heard this story in one of the wine cellars in Tbilisi.
