RKATSITELI
Rkatsiteli: A Renowned Georgian Grape Variety
Rkatsiteli is one of the most widely recognized and cultivated grape varieties in Georgia, particularly in the Kakheti region. Its name derives from the reddish hue of the grape’s stem. Rkatsiteli is an ancient variety, with its origins dating back to the first centuries of the Common Era.
Diverse Names and Origins
Rkatsiteli is known by various local names in different regions, such as Kukura, Kakhura, Dedali Rkatsiteli, and others. These names often reflect the grape’s shape, color, or the region where it is grown.
Rkatsiteli originates from Kakheti and belongs to the group of grape varieties found in the Alazani Valley
Characteristics and Uses
⦁ High Quality: Rkatsiteli produces high-quality white wine characterized by its lightness, harmony, and fruity aromas.
⦁ Versatility: It can be used to make a variety of wines, including table wines, fortified wines, and dessert wines.
⦁ Wide Distribution: Rkatsiteli is widely cultivated not only in Georgia but also in other countries.
Botanical Description of Rkatsiteli Grape Variety
Rkatsiteli is a well-studied grape variety with detailed botanical characteristics:
⦁ Shoot: Young shoots are pubescent, with a grayish-white color and a slight pinkish tinge.
⦁ Leaf: The leaf is round in shape, with a dark green color. The leaf blade has a net-like venation.
⦁ Flower: The flower is bisexual, meaning both male and female reproductive organs are present in the same flower.
⦁ Cluster: The cluster is medium-sized, cylindrical-conical or cylindrical in shape.
⦁ Berry: The berry is golden-yellow in color, turning into a beautiful pinkish hue when fully ripe.
⦁ Seeds: The number of seeds in a berry varies from 1 to 4.
Rkatsiteli: A Versatile Georgian Grape Variety
Rkatsiteli is a widely cultivated grape variety in Georgia, known for its adaptability to various climatic conditions. Its growth and development depend on several factors, including climate, soil, and viticultural practices.
Rkatsiteli has moderate growth vigor, meaning it neither grows exceptionally fast nor slow. It is a high-yielding variety, capable of producing over 10,000 kilograms of grapes per hectare in favorable conditions
The vegetative period of Rkatsiteli varies depending on the climate and can last from 138 to 161 days.
Rkatsiteli is a relatively hardy grape variety, resistant to various environmental conditions, particularly winter frosts. Studies have shown that it is more frost-resistant than many other grape varieties, including Saperavi, Pinot, and Aligoté.
However, Rkatsiteli may be susceptible to fungal diseases. It is more resistant to powdery mildew than downy mildew. In western Georgia, where downy mildew is more prevalent, additional protection may be necessary. In Azerbaijan and Dagestan, powdery mildew poses a greater threat to Rkatsiteli.
Overall, Rkatsiteli can be considered a hardy grape variety resistant to frost and relatively resistant to fungal diseases. However, its cultivation should take into account the specific climatic conditions and disease prevalence in the region.
Rkatsiteli is a versatile grape variety with various uses. It can be used to make a wide range of wines, including table wines, Kakheti-style wines, fortified wines, and dessert wines.
Additionally, Rkatsiteli grapes can be enjoyed as a table grape or used to make high-quality juice. Rkatsiteli grapes are known for their juiciness, high sugar content, and pleasant aroma, making them ideal for wine production.
Rkatsiteli: A Versatile Georgian Grape Variety
Rkatsiteli is a renowned Georgian grape variety known for its versatility and ability to produce high-quality wines. Its name is derived from the reddish hue of its stems.
Juice Yield and Chemical Composition
Rkatsiteli grapes have a high juice yield, with an average of 70-80 hectoliters of juice per ton of grapes. The juice is characterized by its high sugar content and moderate acidity, making it ideal for winemaking.
Wine Production
Rkatsiteli wines are known for their diversity and can range from light and aromatic table wines to full-bodied and complex wines. The style of wine produced depends on various factors, including the region where the grapes are grown, the climate, and the winemaking techniques used.
Rkatsiteli grapes can also be used to make grape juice and other alcoholic beverages. The grapes have a pleasant taste and aroma, making them suitable for table grapes as well.
Adaptation and Cultivation
Rkatsiteli is a versatile grape variety that can adapt to different climatic conditions. It is widely cultivated in various countries, and the wines produced from Rkatsiteli grapes vary depending on the region, climate, and production methods.
Rkatsiteli is also known for its high yield and good adaptability to different growing conditions.
