The vinification of Otskhanuri Sapere is carried out in stainless steel tanks, which allows for a clean, precise expression of the grape’s natural qualities. After hand-picking the grapes from the Baghdati vineyards in Imereti, they are gently crushed and fermented under carefully controlled temperatures. This process highlights the rich tannins and deep color characteristic of Otskhanuri Sapere, while maintaining its vibrant fruit flavors and balanced structure. The stainless steel method preserves the freshness and clarity of the wine, reflecting the unique qualities of the Imereti region.
Otskhanuri Sapere bursts with intense aromas of ripe red berries, particularly cherries and blackberries, intertwined with earthy undertones, subtle floral hints of violets, and a whisper of spice, revealing the wine’s complexity.
A classic dry red wine, Otskhanuri Sapere is bold and expressive, showcasing its varietal purity and regional typicity.
The palate offers a robust and structured taste, with layers of dark fruits such as blackcurrant and plum, accompanied by savory notes of herbs and a touch of minerality. The wine’s depth and character make each sip powerful yet refined.
The wine has a medium to high acidity, providing freshness and balance, complementing the full-bodied nature of the wine.
It finishes long and smooth, with lingering fruit and gentle spice, while maintaining a clean, slightly tannic edge that invites another sip.
The tannins are firm but well-integrated, contributing to the wine’s structure and aging potential, while still allowing for a pleasant mouthfeel.
Otskhanuri Sapere is renowned for its striking, deep ruby red hue, with flashes of purple that catch the light, giving the wine a sense of youthful energy and intensity. The color hints at the richness and concentration of the wine, while also reflecting its bold character, typical of the variety.
Crystal clear and polished, Otskhanuri Sapere shows excellent clarity in the glass. Its clean, bright appearance is a reflection of careful winemaking techniques, ensuring that the wine is visually inviting and free from imperfections. The shimmering surface enhances its allure.
When swirled, the wine clings to the sides of the glass, forming slow, steady legs, indicating its medium-to-high viscosity. This reflects both the wine’s alcohol content and its concentrated texture, signaling a well-structured red that promises richness on the palate.
The mouthfeel is dense and velvety, almost coating the entire palate with a smooth texture. This richness is balanced by a vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively, while the firm, slightly grippy tannins add structure and depth. The sensation is both satisfying and complex, leaving a lasting impression.
Full-bodied and robust, this wine feels weighty and substantial in the mouth. The body is driven by the concentration of fruit and tannins, delivering a powerful presence that envelops the palate without being too overwhelming. It’s a wine that feels rich yet maintains a certain finesse.
The nose of Otskhanuri Sapere is bold and aromatic, bursting with dark fruit notes like blackberry, black cherry, and plum. Underlying these fruit aromas are earthy, forest floor nuances, along with hints of pepper and spices that add complexity. As the wine opens up, more subtle aromas of dried herbs and a faint smokiness emerge, offering layers of intrigue.
Otskhanuri Sapere hails from the Imereti region of western Georgia, specifically from the village of Baghdati, which is known for cultivating this unique indigenous grape variety. The region’s distinct microclimate and natural conditions play a significant role in shaping the wine’s character, imbuing it with a sense of place that reflects the harmony between the grape and its environment.
The vineyards are situated at moderate altitudes, ranging from 300 to 500 meters above sea level, with gentle slopes that ensure good drainage and exposure to sunlight. This altitude helps preserve the grape’s natural acidity and freshness, while the slopes provide optimal sun exposure, which is crucial for ripening the Otskhanuri Sapere grapes fully.
The climate in Imereti is predominantly humid subtropical, marked by warm summers and mild winters. This moderate climate allows for the slow and steady ripening of grapes, preserving their natural acidity while developing rich, concentrated flavors. The region’s proximity to the Black Sea helps regulate temperature fluctuations, providing a temperate growing season ideal for producing balanced red wines like Otskhanuri Sapere.
Throughout the growing season, temperatures in Imereti typically range from 20°C to 25°C, with cooler nights that help retain the grapes’ natural acidity. This balance of warm days and cool nights encourages the development of concentrated fruit flavors while maintaining the wine’s signature freshness and vibrant structure. The relatively moderate temperature profile ensures that the wine does not become overly ripe or heavy, preserving its elegance and finesse.
The soils in Baghdati are typically alluvial and clay-loam, rich in minerals and organic material. These well-draining soils encourage deep root growth, promoting healthy vines and enhancing the expression of terroir in the wine. The mineral-rich composition adds a certain vibrancy to the wine, contributing to its complexity and earthy undertones.
Otskhanuri Sapere’s robust structure, pronounced tannins, and vibrant acidity make it an excellent companion to hearty, flavorful dishes. Here are some ideal food pairings:
The wine’s depth and tannic structure pair beautifully with grilled lamb, beef steaks, or pork ribs. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, while its earthy undertones complement the charred flavors.
Otskhanuri Sapere pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses such as Gouda, Pecorino, or Georgian Sulguni. The cheese’s fat content balances the wine’s tannins, while the acidity enhances the savory flavors of the cheese.
Earthy dishes like wild mushroom risotto or sautéed porcini mushrooms harmonize well with the wine’s earthy and slightly spicy profile. The mushrooms bring out the subtle forest floor notes present in the wine.
Venison, duck, or rabbit also pair well with Otskhanuri Sapere due to its ability to handle richer and more flavorful meats. The wine’s boldness complements the gaminess, while its acidity provides balance.
For a lighter option, consider roasted vegetables or dishes featuring lentils or eggplant. The wine’s freshness and fruit-forward palate bring out the natural sweetness in the vegetables, making for a delightful contrast.
Otskhanuri Sapere, with its bold tannins and rich, structured character, is best served at the right temperature to fully express its complexity and vibrant flavors. Here’s the ideal serving temperature:
Optimal Temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F)
Serving Otskhanuri Sapere at this slightly cool room temperature allows the wine’s fruit flavors to shine while keeping its tannins in balance. The cooler end of this range highlights the wine’s freshness and acidity, while the warmer end enhances its deeper, earthy tones.
Decanting: Decanting for 30-45 minutes before serving is recommended. This allows the wine to breathe, softening the tannins and bringing out the wine’s aromatic complexity and flavor profile.
Glassware: Use a large Bordeaux-style glass to allow the wine to open up and release its full bouquet of aromas. This enhances the tasting experience by providing enough room for the wine’s intense fruity and earthy notes to develop.
Serving Otskhanuri Sapere at the right temperature ensures the wine’s flavors, aromas, and structure are at their best, providing a rich and enjoyable tasting experience.