Rkatsiteli Qvevri, the grapes are carefully selected and harvested by hand. The winemaking process begins with the traditional Georgian method of fermentation in Qvevri, large clay vessels buried underground. After crushing, the grape juice, along with the skins and seeds, is placed into the Qvevri to ferment naturally.
The wine remains in the Qvevri for six months with full skin contact, a process that imparts its rich amber color and complex tannins. This extended contact with the skins allows the wine to develop depth and texture, enhancing its structure and bringing forward the bold, dried Fruit characteristics typical of traditional amber wines. The result is a wine with a perfect balance between fruit, acidity, and the robust qualities that define Qvevri-aged wines.
This wine presents a rich and layered aromatic profile, starting with delicate notes of dried apricots, peaches, and orange zest, complemented by hints of honey, toasted nuts, and wildflowers. These aromas are a hallmark of the skin contact and Qvevri aging, offering a unique bouquet of complexity and warmth.
As a traditional amber dry wine, this Rkatsiteli is characterized by its balance of richness and freshness. The wine’s textural complexity, derived from skin contact and aging in Qvevri, makes it a standout in its category, perfect for those who appreciate both structure and depth.
On the palate, Rkatsiteli Qvevri is full-bodied, showcasing flavors of ripe stone fruits, particularly quince, with a touch of green tea and a subtle mineral edge. The texture is rounded, yet vibrant, reflecting the depth gained from its extended Qvevri aging.
Bright and well-structured acidity elevates the fruitiness of the wine, creating a refreshing balance with the wine’s richness. It keeps the wine vibrant, lively, and easy to pair with various foods.
The wine finishes long and smooth, with lingering notes of dried fruit, and a gentle spice from the tannins. The Qvevri method enhances the finish, leaving a lasting impression of both elegance and complexity.
The tannins are firm but well-integrated, providing the wine with a strong backbone. These tannins not only add structure but also contribute to the wine’s aging potential, giving it a distinguished, elegant feel.
The wine displays a striking amber hue, typical of wines aged in Qvevri with extended skin contact. Its deep, golden-orange color is both vibrant and reflective of the wine’s traditional Georgian roots.
Clear and bright, the wine’s amber tones are accentuated by its pristine clarity. Its natural appearance is a testament to the Qvevri method, where minimal intervention allows the wine’s purity to shine through.
On swirling, Rkatsiteli Qvevri exhibits a moderate to high viscosity, with legs that slowly glide down the glass, indicating its richness and depth. This texture hints at the complexity within the wine.
The mouthfeel is velvety and layered, with a pleasing balance between richness and freshness. The skin contact provides a subtle grip from tannins, while the extended aging in Qvevri imparts a smooth, rounded texture, coating the palate with soft yet persistent flavors.
This is a medium to full-bodied wine, offering a substantial mouthfeel. The weight on the palate is generous, making it a wine that commands attention while still maintaining balance and freshness.
On the nose, this wine is expressive and aromatic, with dried fruit, spice, and mineral tones that emerge from the glass. The aromatic intensity is heightened by the wine’s contact with the skins, giving it a deep, complex fragrance that evolves as the wine opens.
This Rkatsiteli Qvevri comes from the Tsinandali Micro Zone, located in the heart of the Kakheti region in Georgia. The vineyards are in Telavi, Village Kurdgelauri, a location renowned for producing wines with great structure and depth, thanks to its unique terroir.
Situated at an altitude of 400–500 meters above sea level, the vineyard benefits from the cooling influence of elevation. The gentle slopes provide optimal exposure to sunlight, allowing the grapes to achieve perfect ripeness while maintaining freshness
The region enjoys a moderate continental climate, with hot summers and mild winters. This balance between warm daytime temperatures and cooler nights creates ideal conditions for the slow ripening of the Rkatsiteli grape, preserving acidity while allowing for complex flavor development.
During the growing season, daytime temperatures in the region can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while nighttime temperatures drop to around 15°C (59°F). This diurnal temperature variation is crucial for developing the wine’s balance of fruit intensity and refreshing acidity, contributing to its vibrant and lively character.
The vineyards are planted in well-drained, clay-limestone soils, rich in minerals. This soil composition enhances the wine’s structure and minerality, imparting subtle earthy notes and contributing to the distinct character of wines from the Tsinandali Micro Zone.
Rkatsiteli Qvevri is a complex, structured amber wine with rich tannins and vibrant acidity, making it a versatile companion for a variety of dishes. Its depth and layers of flavor, combined with its traditional Georgian vinification in Qvevri, make it an excellent match for foods with bold, earthy, and savory flavors.
The tannic structure and spiced notes of this amber wine pair wonderfully with grilled or roasted meats, especially lamb, pork, and chicken. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, while the earthy flavors enhance the smoky, charred aromas from the grill.
Traditional Georgian dishes such as Pkhali, a walnut and spinach dish, Khachapuri or Kharcho, complement the wine’s bold flavor profile. The tannins in the wine balance the richness of the walnuts, while its acidity complements the spiced and tomato-based elements of the Kharcho.
Its nuttiness and slight oxidative character balance beautifully with hard, aged cheeses like Gouda, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or Manchego. The wine’s textured mouthfeel mirrors the complexity of these cheeses, creating a harmonious pairing.
For more adventurous pairings, fatty seafood like shrimps, salmon or trout, especially when served with rich, creamy sauces or roasted vegetables, contrasts beautifully with the wine’s bright acidity and deep texture, balancing out the richness of the dish.
For plant-based options, consider roasted root vegetables, grilled eggplant, or dishes with mushrooms. The wine’s natural earthiness and tannic grip echo the umami found in dishes like mushroom risotto or roasted beet salads, creating a synergistic pairing.
To enhance the wine’s vibrant aromas and refreshing acidity, Rkatsiteli Qvevri is best served slightly chilled at a temperature between 12°C and 14°C (53°F to 57°F). This optimal serving temperature allows the complex flavors to shine while providing a crisp and enjoyable tasting experience.