Alazani Valley
Wine Type:
White Semi Sweet Wine
Grape Variety:
Rkatsiteli
Alcohol
12-13 %
Region:
Telavi, Village Kurdgelauri
Terroir:
Tsinandali Micro Zone
Vinification:
Stainless steel tanks
Serving Temperature
10–12°C (53–57°F)
Ageing Potential
5 Years
Aging Time
1-2 Years
Vinification
The vinification of Alazani Valley White Semi-Sweet Wine is carefully managed to retain the natural sweetness of the Rkatsiteli grapes while maintaining a refreshing balance of acidity. The process begins with hand-harvested Rkatsiteli grapes from the Tsinandali Micro Zone in Telavi, ensuring only the best fruit is selected.
After destemming and gentle pressing, the juice is transferred to stainless steel tanks for controlled fermentation. The temperature during fermentation is closely monitored to preserve the fresh fruit aromas and the varietal character of the grapes.
The winemaker ensures that the wine retains its delicate fruity aromas and preserves the natural sugars essential for achieving a semi-sweet style.
This method of vinification in stainless steel ensures a clean, bright wine that highlights the natural fruitiness and subtle floral notes of the Rkatsiteli grape, while maintaining a well-rounded sweetness on the palate.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
The nose opens with an inviting bouquet of ripe orchard fruits, such as peaches, apricots, and pears, blended with delicate floral notes of white blossoms and a hint of honeyed sweetness. There’s also a subtle touch of citrus, adding freshness to the aroma profile.
Style
A light to medium-bodied, semi-sweet white wine that balances fruit-driven sweetness with a refreshing, crisp acidity, making it a versatile and approachable wine for various palates.
Palate
On the palate, this semi-sweet wine delivers a soft, lush texture with flavors of ripe stone fruits, particularly peach and apricot, alongside green apple and a light citrus zing. The sweetness is well-balanced, not overpowering, and is perfectly complemented by the fresh acidity that adds structure and brightness.
Acidity
The wine exhibits a moderate acidity that cuts through the sweetness, keeping the palate clean and invigorated, adding a refreshing quality to the fruity richness.
Finish
The finish is smooth and lingering, with a pleasant touch of residual sweetness that leaves a lasting impression of honeyed fruits and a gentle, refreshing citrus note.
Texture
Color
Alazani Valley displays a pale golden-yellow hue, shimmering in the glass and suggesting its fresh and fruity character. The brightness of the color is indicative of its youthful and vibrant nature.
Appearance
The wine’s appearance is clear and bright, with no noticeable cloudiness, showcasing its quality and careful vinification. The clarity and vibrant color enhance its visual appeal, inviting one to take a sip.
Viscosity
The wine exhibits a medium viscosity, allowing it to glide gracefully across the palate. This slight richness is a result of the residual sugar present in the semi-sweet style, giving it a luscious feel without being overly heavy.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel is smooth and rounded, with a luscious, velvety texture that envelops the palate. The balanced sweetness contributes to a pleasing richness, while the refreshing acidity provides a clean and lively finish.
Body
It is classified as a light to medium-bodied wine, providing a refreshing and easy-drinking experience while maintaining enough substance to satisfy the palate.
Nose
The nose is expressive and aromatic, showcasing a delightful bouquet of ripe fruit and floral notes. The intensity of the aromas invites exploration, while the wine’s youthful vibrancy is evident in the bright and lively fragrances.
Terroir
Terroir and Origin
Alazani Valley wine originates from the Tsinandali Micro Zone in Telavi, specifically from the village of Kurdgelauri. This region is renowned for its favorable conditions for viticulture, with a long-standing history of winemaking that reflects the unique characteristics of its terroir. The interplay of climate, soil, and local traditions contributes to the distinct profile of the wine.
Altitude & Slope
The vineyards are situated at a moderate altitude, typically around 400 to 600 meters above sea level. The slopes in this area provide excellent sunlight exposure and airflow, which are crucial for healthy grape development. The elevation helps to create a microclimate that enhances the aromatic qualities of the grapes.
Climate
The climate in the Alazani Valley is classified as continental, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. This climate allows the Rkatsiteli grapes to ripen fully, developing their signature flavors and aromas. The warm days promote optimal grape maturation, while cooler nights help retain the acidity, resulting in a balanced wine.
Temperature
The temperature in the Alazani Valley varies significantly between day and night, especially during the growing season. The warm daytime temperatures allow the grapes to ripen fully, while the cooler nights help to preserve the wine’s natural acidity. This temperature variation is vital for achieving a balanced flavor profile, enhancing the freshness and complexity
Soil
The soil in the Tsinandali Micro Zone is primarily composed of clay and limestone, rich in minerals that are beneficial for grape growing. This combination provides good drainage and encourages deep root growth, enabling the vines to access essential nutrients and moisture. The soil’s composition contributes to the complexity and depth of flavor found in the wine.
Food Pairing
Appetizers
Alazani Valley’s sweetness complements a variety of appetizers, particularly those featuring cheese. A platter of soft cheeses such as brie or camembert, accompanied by fruit preserves or honey, enhances the wine’s fruit-forward character. Additionally, light charcuterie with mild cured meats pairs beautifully, balancing the sweetness with savory notes.
Salads
Fresh salads featuring citrus dressings or fruity components work wonderfully with Alazani Valley wine. Consider a salad with mandarin oranges, feta cheese, and mixed greens drizzled with a honey vinaigrette, which complements the wine’s sweetness and acidity.
Asian Cuisine
The wine’s semi-sweet profile makes it an excellent companion for Asian dishes, especially those with a hint of spice. Dishes like sweet and sour chicken, Thai curry, or sushi with a touch of sweetness harmonize well with the wine’s fruity notes, creating a delightful fusion of flavors.
Desserts
For dessert pairings, the wine excels with fruit-based desserts like tarts, cobblers, or panna cotta. A classic pairing would be a peach tart or a lemon meringue pie, where the wine’s sweetness balances the tartness of the desserts, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Seafood
Lightly prepared seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp, scallops, or sushi rolls, are enhanced by the wine’s refreshing acidity and sweetness. The combination allows the natural flavors of the seafood to shine while adding an enjoyable contrast to the palate.
Serving Temperature
Alazani Valley should be served at a temperature of 8-10°C (46-50°F) to ensure its flavors and aromas are fully expressed. Chilling the wine to this temperature enhances its refreshing qualities, making it an excellent choice for warm weather or pairing with lighter dishes.
Serving the wine too cold may mute some of its aromatic qualities, while a warmer temperature can amplify its sweetness and make it feel heavier on the palate. To achieve the ideal serving temperature, it’s best to refrigerate the bottle for about 2-3 hours before serving or place it in an ice bucket for approximately 20-30 minutes.
