The vinification of this Kisi wine follows the European tradition, focusing on preserving the fresh, bright characteristics of the grape. After being hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, the Kisi grapes undergo careful sorting to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used. The grapes are gently pressed, and the juice is immediately transferred to stainless steel tanks for fermentation.
In stainless steel, the wine ferments at controlled, cooler temperatures, allowing the natural fruit flavors and delicate floral aromas of the Kisi grape to shine through. This method preserves the wine’s vibrant acidity and fresh, crisp texture while maintaining the purity of its varietal expression.
No skin contact is used during the fermentation process, emphasizing a clean, modern profile with a focus on fruit clarity rather than extended maceration. The wine is left to rest in the tanks post-fermentation to settle and develop additional complexity, then lightly filtered before bottling.
Kisi showcases a bright and inviting bouquet, characterized by fresh floral notes, particularly white blossoms and citrus. Aromas of ripe stone fruits like peach and apricot intermingle with hints of green apple and subtle herbal undertones, creating a complex yet refreshing aromatic profile.
Kisi in this classic European style exemplifies a modern approach to winemaking, emphasizing clarity and purity of the fruit. It is an expression of the terroir, focusing on vibrant acidity and fruit-forward character.
On the palate, Kisi reveals its crisp acidity, which provides a vibrant structure. The flavor profile mirrors the nose, with juicy peach and apricot flavors taking center stage. A slight minerality and a touch of citrus zest add depth, while the balanced acidity ensures a clean and refreshing mouthfeel.
The acidity is bright and lively, providing a refreshing backbone that enhances the wine’s food pairing potential. It balances the richness of the fruit flavors and contributes to the overall elegance of the wine.
The finish is elegant and lingering, leaving a refreshing aftertaste of citrus and stone fruit. Hints of green herbs and a touch of minerality enhance the complexity, inviting another sip and showcasing the wine’s balance and finesse.
Kisi displays a pale straw-yellow hue, showcasing its freshness and youthful character. The color is bright and inviting, often with subtle greenish reflections that hint at its vibrant acidity.
In the glass, Kisi appears clear and bright, with a slight sheen that reflects its freshness. The clarity of the wine speaks to its careful vinification and minimal intervention during the winemaking process.
The wine has a light to medium viscosity, which is typical for white wines in this style. When swirled in the glass, it forms delicate legs that indicate its moderate alcohol content, suggesting a balanced structure without being overly heavy.
The mouthfeel is smooth and refreshing, with the bright acidity lifting the flavors and enhancing the overall drinking experience. The wine glides across the palate, leaving a clean and invigorating sensation, complemented by the juicy fruit flavors.
Kisi has a light to medium body, striking a perfect balance between richness and refreshment. The wine feels weighty enough to deliver flavor yet remains agile and crisp, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or lighter dishes.
The nose of Kisi is expressive and aromatic, showcasing a blend of floral, fruity, and herbal notes. The initial impression is that of ripe stone fruits, with layers of citrus zest and hints of Pear, supported by delicate floral aromas, creating an inviting bouquet.
Kisi is cultivated in the Akhmeta Zone, specifically in the village of Akhmeta, located within the Telavi region of Georgia. This area is renowned for its rich viticultural history and favorable growing conditions, which contribute to the distinct characteristics of the Kisi grape. The terroir here combines a unique blend of climate, soil, and geographical features that enhance the wine’s complexity and flavor profile.
The vineyards are situated at an altitude of approximately 400 to 600 meters above sea level, on gentle slopes that facilitate good air circulation and drainage. The elevation helps mitigate extreme temperatures, allowing for gradual ripening and maintaining the grapes’ acidity. The slope orientation further optimizes sun exposure, contributing to the grapes’ development of rich flavors and aromas.
The climate in the Akhmeta Zone is classified as a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. The region benefits from long sunlight hours, which allow the grapes to ripen fully while preserving their acidity. The combination of warm days and cooler nights helps maintain a balance between sugar accumulation and acidity, resulting in wines that are both vibrant and refreshing.
Temperature plays a crucial role in the cultivation of Kisi. The region experiences average summer temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), which are ideal for ripening. The cooler evenings, often dropping to around 15°C (59°F), help preserve the acidity and freshness of the grapes, leading to a well-balanced wine that captures the essence of its terroir.
The soil composition in the Akhmeta Zone is predominantly clay and limestone, enriched with minerals that provide excellent drainage and nutrients for the vines. This soil type supports the Kisi grape’s growth by allowing the roots to penetrate deeply, accessing water and essential minerals. The mineral content in the soil also contributes to the wine’s complexity and enhances its overall character.
Kisi offers a vibrant acidity and fresh fruit flavors that complement a variety of dishes. The wine’s bright profile makes it an excellent choice for seafood and light meats, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The crisp acidity of Kisi pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted fish, such as sea bass or trout, as well as shellfish like shrimp and scallops. These dishes highlight the wine’s fruity notes and provide a refreshing contrast.
Light fruit-based desserts or salads featuring seasonal fruits can also be paired with Kisi, creating a refreshing conclusion to a meal.
The wine’s versatility extends to vegetarian cuisine, where it complements grilled or roasted vegetables, particularly those drizzled with olive oil or served with a citrus-based dressing. Salads featuring fresh greens, citrus segments, and light vinaigrettes also make for a delightful pairing.
Soft cheeses such as goat cheese or feta resonate well with Kisi, as their creamy textures and tangy flavors mirror the wine’s vibrant acidity.
Lightly seasoned chicken or turkey dishes benefit from the bright notes of Kisi. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of roasted or grilled poultry, allowing for a harmonious balance.
The refreshing character of Kisi makes it a great match for mildly spicy dishes, like Thai or Indian cuisine. The wine’s acidity helps to cool the palate, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
The ideal serving temperature for Kisi (Classic / European Style) is between 10°C (46–50°F). Serving the wine at this temperature enhances its overall drinking experience, allowing the wine’s vibrant characteristics to shine.
To achieve the ideal temperature, it is recommended to chill the bottle in a refrigerator for about 2–3 hours before serving. Alternatively, you can place the wine in an ice bucket filled with ice and water for approximately 20–30 minutes for a quicker chill.