Georgia is known for its rich winemaking tradition and is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. The country has a wide range of indigenous grape varieties (around 500) that are used to make unique and distinctive wines. Some of the notable grape varieties in Georgia include:
Saperavi: Saperavi is one of the most famous Georgian grape varieties and is known for its deep red color and bold, full-bodied red wines. It is used to make both dry and semi-sweet wines.
Rkatsiteli: Rkatsiteli is one of the most widely planted white grape varieties in Georgia. It is used to make a variety of wines, including dry whites, amber wines (qvevri wine), and sweet dessert wines.
Kisi: Kisi is another important white grape variety used in Georgian winemaking. It is often used to produce amber wines, which are fermented and aged in clay qvevri (large earthenware vessels).
Mtsvane: Mtsvane, which means "green" in Georgian, is another white grape variety used to make a range of wines, including dry whites and amber wines.
Chinuri: Chinuri is a white grape variety primarily grown in the Kartli region of Georgia. It is used to make sparkling wines, including traditional Georgian sparkling wine known as "Chinuri."
Khikhvi: Khikhvi is an aromatic white grape variety used to make dry and semi-sweet wines. It is known for its floral and fruity aromas.
Tsolikouri: Tsolikouri is a white grape variety used to make dry and semi-sweet wines. It is known for its balanced acidity and fruity flavors.
Ojaleshi: Ojaleshi is a red grape variety primarily grown in the western part of Georgia. It is used to make red wines with vibrant fruit flavors and moderate tannins.
Aleksandrouli: Aleksandrouli is another red grape variety used in Georgian winemaking, often blended with Ojaleshi to make semi-sweet and sweet red wines.
Aladasturi: Aladasturi is a red grape variety known for its dark color and is used to make both dry and semi-sweet red wines.
These are just a few examples of the many grape varieties found in Georgia. The country's winemaking heritage is deeply rooted in its indigenous grape varieties and traditional winemaking methods, including fermentation and aging in qvevri buried in the ground. Georgian wines are known for their complexity and unique character, making them a fascinating part of the global wine landscape.