Kakheti

The Kakheti is one of the most historic and renowned appellations in Georgia, in the eastern part of the country. This area is known for a winegrowing tradition going back millennia, making Kakheti a symbol of Georgian wine culture. The wines made in this appellation are the result of a perfect balance between a favourable climate, rich soils and traditional winemaking techniques.

Characteristics of Kakheti

Colour

  • Whites: Straw yellow with golden highlights, often of good intensity.
  • Reds: Deep ruby red, with purple nuances in the younger wines.

Aromas

  • Fruity: Notes of red fruit such as cherries and raspberries in the red wines, while in the whites you can find hints of citrus and peaches.
  • Floral: Hints of white flowers and violets, which enrich the aromatic bouquet.
  • Spicy: Light hints of spices and herbs, which give the wine complexity.

Palate

  • Fresh and fruity: With a lively acidity that makes the wines particularly pleasant on the palate.
  • Full-bodied and structured: The red wines show good tannins, while the whites are lighter and more aromatic.
  • Long: It leaves a sense of freshness and a long aromatic finish.

Production Areas

The Kakheti lies in the eastern part of Georgia and takes in several production sub-zones, including:
  • Telavi: Known for its robust, complex red wines.
  • Kvareli: Famous for its fresh, aromatic white wines.
  • Signagi: A scenic area producing high-quality wines, often with good ageing potential.

Grape Varieties Used

  • Saperavi (100%): The most representative red grape variety of Kakheti, known for its intensity and ageing capacity.
  • Rkatsiteli (100%): A white grape variety that expresses freshness and fruity aromas, perfect for producing white wines.

Typical Winemaking

  • Fermentation in qvevri: The traditional Georgian method, which uses large buried terracotta amphorae for natural winemaking.
  • Ageing: The red wines can be aged in wood, while the whites are often left in qvevri to bring out their character.

Food Pairings

Starters

  • Meat-based dishes: Kebabs, grilled beef and lamb.
  • Local cheeses: Fresh Georgian cheeses, such as sulguni.
  • Grilled vegetables: Aubergines, peppers and tomatoes dressed with spices.

First Courses

  • Khinkali: Ravioli filled with meat and spices, perfect with a Kakheti red wine.
  • Khachapuri: Cheese-filled bread, a classic pairing with white wines.

Main Courses

  • Roast meats: Slow-cooked marinated chicken and pork.
  • Grilled fish: Fresh Black Sea fish, ideal with aromatic white wines.

Why Choose Kakheti?

The Kakheti is a journey into the heart of the Georgian winemaking tradition, offering wines rich in history, freshness and complexity. Its versatility makes it ideal for to go with local dishes, convivial dinners and festive moments, allowing you to discover the authenticity and charm of Georgia in every sip.

Kakheti: My personal podium

  • 1
    Nagdi Tsarapi 2016 - Nagdi Marani

    Nagdi Tsarapi 2016 - Nagdi Marani

    • Type: Vino Bianco
    • Region: Georgia, Kakheti, Tsarapi
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