Saperavi Qvevri
Wine Type:
Red Dry Wine
Grape Variety:
Mtsvane
Alcohol
16-18 %
Region:
Telavi, Village Kurdgelauri
Terroir:
Tsinandali Micro Zone
Vinification:
Qvevri
Serving Temperature
12–14°C (53–57°F)
Ageing Potential
5 Years
Aging Time
2+ Years
Vinification
The Saperavi Qvevri undergoes a meticulous vinification process that highlights the unique characteristics of the Saperavi grape. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. After crushing, the must is transferred to traditional Qvevris, where fermentation occurs naturally with indigenous yeast. This wine is then subjected to a prolonged maceration period of seven months with skin contact, allowing for the extraction of rich color, bold tannins, and complex flavors that are hallmark traits of Saperavi.After fermentation is over wine is pressed and return to Qvevri. Wine stays in Qvevri for seven months were it goes Through secondary fermentation and aging. The Qvevris, buried underground, facilitate an optimal environment for fermentation and aging, imparting subtle nuances and a distinct terroir character to the final wine. Following the maturation period, the wine is gently racked and then bottled, preserving the integrity and authenticity of this esteemed Georgian varietal.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
The Saperavi Qvevri presents an alluring bouquet of dark fruits, notably ripe blackberries and plums, intertwined with subtle hints of black cherry and a touch of dried herbs. There are also underlying notes of black pepper, blackberries, and a gentle spice, adding complexity to the aromatic profile.
Style
This wine embodies a classic red dry style, reflective of traditional Georgian winemaking methods while embracing the unique characteristics of the Saperavi grape. Its robust nature and depth make it suitable for both immediate enjoyment and further aging.
Palate
On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and richly textured, with flavors echoing the aromatic notes. The ripe dark fruit is complemented by layers of blackberries, cherries, and species, creating a harmonious balance. The mouthfeel is plush and inviting, leading to a satisfying drinking experience.
Acidity
With a balanced acidity, the Saperavi Qvevri maintains a lively freshness that enhances its fruit-forward profile, making it versatile for food pairings.
Finish
The finish is long and persistent, showcasing the wine’s vibrant fruit character and well-integrated tannins. There is a subtle interplay of acidity that refreshes the palate, ensuring a lingering aftertaste of dark fruits and a hint of mineral complexity.
Tannins
The tannins are firm yet well-integrated, contributing structure and depth to the wine. They offer a gentle grip on the palate, promising the potential for further development with age.
Texture
Color
The Saperavi Qvevri has a deep, inky purple hue with ruby reflections, showcasing the intense pigmentation typical of the Saperavi grape. Its rich color is a testament to the extended skin contact during vinification.
Appearance
Brilliantly clear despite its dark hue, this wine boasts a polished and vivid appearance, with no signs of cloudiness. The deep color makes it visually captivating in the glass.
Viscosity
On the swirl, this wine reveals a medium-high viscosity, with slow, elegant legs running down the glass, indicating its higher alcohol content and concentrated texture.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel is rich and velvety, with a rounded texture that coats the palate. There’s a pleasing interplay between the wine’s structured tannins and its lush fruit character, creating a harmonious and enveloping sensation.
Body
Full-bodied and powerful, this Saperavi Qvevri fills the palate with weight and depth. Its bold structure is balanced by its smoothness, making it a commanding yet approachable wine.
Nose
On the nose, the Saperavi Qvevri is intense and aromatic, with layers of dark berries, dried herbs, and hints of spice. The nose is complex yet inviting, developing more nuanced aromas as the wine opens up.
Terroir
Terroir and Origin
Saperavi Qvevri originates from the Tsinandali Micro Zone in Telavi, specifically from the village of Kurdgelauri. This region is renowned for producing high-quality Saperavi grapes, thanks to its unique terroir that enhances the grape’s natural intensity and complexity.
Altitude & Slope
The vineyards are situated at an elevation of 450–500 meters above sea level, benefiting from a gradual slope that ensures optimal sun exposure and air circulation. The altitude also moderates the temperature, preventing excessive heat stress on the vines and promoting slow, even ripening of the grapes.
Climate
The region enjoys a temperate continental climate with warm summers and mild winters. The long, dry growing season is ideal for Saperavi, allowing the grapes to fully ripen and develop their characteristic depth of flavor. The cool nights contribute to the preservation of acidity, ensuring the wine remains balanced despite its richness.
Temperature
During the growing season, daytime temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), providing ideal warmth for ripening. Night temperatures drop significantly, creating a diurnal range that helps maintain the grapes’ acidity. This balance between warm days and cool nights allows the Saperavi to achieve its full potential in terms of color, flavor concentration, and structure.
Soil
The soil in the Tsinandali Micro Zone is primarily loamy and rich in clay and limestone, providing excellent drainage and mineral content. This composition encourages deep root growth, enabling the vines to absorb essential nutrients, which contribute to the complexity of the wine’s flavor profile. The presence of limestone enhances the wine’s structure and imparts subtle mineral notes.
Food Pairing
Grilled and Roasted Meats
The bold and intense flavors of Saperavi Qvevri pair beautifully with hearty, grilled or roasted meats such as lamb, beef, and pork. The wine’s rich tannins and robust structure complement the smoky and savory flavors of grilled dishes, while its acidity cuts through the fat, creating a balanced and harmonious pairing.
Mushroom Dishes
Earthy dishes featuring mushrooms—such as a wild mushroom risotto or grilled portobellos—bring out the wine’s subtle earthy undertones. The wine’s acidity and depth provide an excellent counterpoint to the umami-rich flavors of the mushrooms.
Game Meat
Saperavi’s full body and complex profile are an ideal match for game meats like venison or wild boar. The wine’s deep, dark fruit flavors and earthy notes enhance the natural gaminess of these meats, making for a rich and satisfying combination.
Barbecue
The smoky, slightly sweet flavors of barbecued meats, especially with bold sauces, pair seamlessly with Saperavi Qvevri. The wine’s tannic structure and dark fruit intensity stand up to the richness of the sauce and the charred notes of the meat.
Aged Cheeses
Pair this wine with aged cheeses such as Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or aged Gouda. The wine’s firm tannins and concentrated fruit flavors balance the intense, nutty, and sharp characteristics of these cheeses, offering a complementary contrast.
Serving Temperature
Saperavi Qvevri is best enjoyed slightly below room temperature, ideally served between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 65°F). This range allows the wine’s complexity to fully unfold, highlighting its deep fruit flavors, tannic structure, and earthy undertones without overwhelming the palate. Letting the wine breathe before serving will also help to soften the tannins and enhance its aromatics.
