Georgian red wine grape varieties

Your trip to Georgia will take you to the heart of these unique red wines. Red varieties include Saperavi, Kindzmarauli and Usakhelauri.

Saperavi: The king of Georgian red wine grape varieties

Saperavi is a red grape variety that originated in Georgia. Reputed to be one of the oldest in the world, its existence dates back over 6,000 years. It is mainly grown in the Kakheti region of eastern Georgia, where warm, dry climatic conditions favor its growth.

Saperavi is a multi-faceted grape variety that can be used to produce dry, semi-sweet and dessert red wines. Its berries, with their thick skin and juicy pulp, are a dark bluish-black color. Harvesting takes place in October, after the grapes have ripened slowly and evenly.

Saperavi red wines are characterized by their intense purple color and lively acidity, as well as by aromas of black fruit, plum, cherry and blackcurrant. The pronounced tannins give the wine a firm, robust structure.

Saperavi is used to produce Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) wines and can be adapted to different types of cuisine. In Georgia, it is often served with meat dishes, especially barbecues. It also pairs well with cheeses, grilled vegetables and spicy dishes. In short, it’s a versatile grape variety that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes.

Kindzmarauli grape variety: Sweet Georgian red wine

The Kindzmarauli variety is a red grape popular in Georgia for the production of sweet, fruity red wines. Native to the Kakheti region of eastern Georgia. This variety takes its name from the village of Kindzmarauli, where it has been grown for centuries. This variety of red grape is appreciated for its ease of cultivation and unique sweet taste.

Kindzmarauli is a thick-skinned grape with medium to large bunches. The grapes ripen late and are generally harvested in late September or early October. Wines made from this variety have a deep ruby color and aromas of cherry,red berries, fruit jam and vanilla. The characteristic sweetness of these wines is balanced by light acidity and moderate alcohol content.

Kindzmarauli is often associated with meat dishes in Georgia. It can also be enjoyed with cheeses, grilled vegetables or spicy dishes. Wines produced from this grape variety are also protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) in Georgia.

The Kindzmarauli grape is renowned for producing intensely colored red wines with pronounced fruity aromas. Typical olfactory notes include cherry, strawberry, raspberry, plum, fig, blackcurrant, blackberry, fruit jam and vanilla. Wines made from this variety are also characterized by a singular sweetness, perfectly balanced by a slight acidity.

Kindzmarauli is also a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) in Georgia, reserved for red wines produced exclusively from the Kindzmarauli grape variety in the Kakheti region. Wines with this appellation must meet strict quality and production criteria.

Finally, Kindzmarauli is a wine that goes well with a variety of dishes, including red meats, chocolate and fruit-based desserts, and fine cheeses.

Usakherauli grape variety: Sweet Georgian red wine

Usakhelauri is a native Georgian grape variety renowned for producing top-quality red wines. This grape variety originates from the Ratcha region in the west of the country. Although cultivated for centuries in this region, the name of the grape variety was only established in the 1920s. Over the years, Usakhelauri has become one of the most prized grape varieties in the Ratcha region for its ability to produce superior red wines.

The Usakhelauri variety is characterized by its late ripening, which requires special care. It is sensitive to disease, parasites and climatic variations, making it difficult to grow. Usakhelauri bunches are medium to small, with black or dark red berries. Yields are generally low, but the wines produced are of superior quality.

The red wines produced from Usakhelauri are characterized by aromas of red fruit, cherry, blackberry and spice, as well as floral and undergrowth notes. The color is generally dark red with violet highlights, giving the wines an attractive appearance.

Red wines made from Usakhelauri grapes feature fruity aromas of cherry, blackberry and spice, as well as floral and undergrowth notes. Their color is usually dark red with violet highlights, giving them a beautiful appearance.

Usakhelauri is grown mainly in the Ratcha region, where it is used to produce top-quality red wines. Usakhelauri wines are often blended with other local varieties such as Aleksandrouli or Mujuretuli. They are protected by the “Khvanchkara” PDO, one of the oldest in Georgia. Which requires that Khvanchkara wines be produced from a blend of these two grape varieties, in specific proportions.

Usakhelauri goes well with sweet dishes and desserts. It also goes very well with fine cheeses. To fully appreciate the aromas of Usakhelauri wine, we recommend serving it at a temperature of between 16 and 18 degrees.

If you want to know more about Georgian red grape varieties. Click on the following link: “Sommelier tastes Georgian Saperavi wine”.

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