New Marani Wines Are In
GEORGIAN WINE
Georgian Wine Importer Since 2006
The Ultimate Guide to Georgian Wine: Grapes, Styles & U.S. Discovery
Georgia isn’t just a place on the map — it’s widely recognized as the birthplace of wine. Archaeological evidence shows that winemaking in Georgia began over 8,000 years ago, making it older than the wine traditions of France, Italy, or Spain. Today, Georgian wine combines these ancient traditions with modern techniques to produce wines that are bold, distinctive, and full of character.
At Corus Imports, we bring that heritage straight to the U.S. wine market. As one of the most established Georgian wine importers in the U.S., we help wine lovers discover authentic Georgian varietals, qvevri techniques, and rare bottles that aren’t widely available elsewhere.
A Rich Tradition: Georgia’s Wine Legacy
Georgia’s winemaking roots run deep. Around 6000 BCE, locals first fermented grape juice in buried clay vessels, known as qvevri. These vessels, now protected by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, remain central to how many Georgian wines are still made today — a living bridge between past and present.
From Kakheti to Imereti, families continue to craft wine using age-old methods, preserving Georgia’s winemaking soul in every bottle.
Wine Regions That Define Georgian Wine
Georgia’s terrain is incredibly varied — mountains, valleys, and rivers create unique microclimates that shape its grapes and wine styles.
The Qvevri Tradition: Earth, Time & Texture
The qvevri (also spelled “kvevri”) is more than a fermentation tool — it’s a spiritual symbol in Georgian wine. Buried underground, these clay amphorae provide steady temperatures and natural micro-oxidation. The result? Wines that are rich, textured, and complex — often amber or orange in color when white varieties undergo long skin contact.
Qvevri wines develop earthy aromas, firm tannins, and herbal complexity, making them emblematic of authentic Georgian wine.
Notable qvevri producers:
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Alapiani Winery — minimal-intervention wines
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Mosmieri Winery — blends modern and traditional methods
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Marani Winery — international leader in qvevri styles
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Wine Ponto — boutique, artisanal batches
Key Georgian Grape Varieties & Flavor Profiles
Georgia hosts over 500 indigenous grape types, though about 45 are cultivated commercially. Here are some you’re most likely to find in the U.S.:
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Saperavi (Red): Deep ruby, full-bodied, flavors of black cherry and licorice. Strong tannins and longevity.
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Rkatsiteli (White / Amber): Crisp, acidic whites, or golden amber wines when skin-fermented. Notes of green apple, quince, honey, and dried fruit.
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Kisi: Aromatic white / amber, with apricot, almond, floral notes and subtle spice — perfect with spicy or vegetable-rich dishes.
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Mtsvane Kakhuri: Fresh, fragrant whites — citrus, peach, herbs. Often blended with Rkatsiteli to enhance aromatic character.
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Chinuri: Bright, mineral whites from Kartli — excellent for sparkling and still wines.
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Tavkveri: Light, red-fruited wines with gentle structure — food-friendly and approachable.
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Tsitska, Krakhuna & Tsolikouri (Imereti): Lighter whites or aromatic styles, ideal for warm-weather sipping and light fare.
Why Georgian Wine Is Gaining in the U.S.
Over the past decade, Georgian wine exports to the U.S. have surged in demand. American enthusiasts and sommeliers are increasingly drawn to minimal-intervention wines and heritage varietals. In fact, Georgian wine exports to the U.S. have seen ~29% year-over-year growth in recent years. Sommelier Business
The ancient methods, organic practices, and unique grape portfolio make Georgian wine in the U.S. stand out — and importers like Corus are helping make these wines accessible to wine shops, restaurants, and collectors.
Corus Imports: Your Premier Georgian Wine Importer in the U.S.
As a top Georgian wine importer in the U.S., Corus Imports bridges Georgia’s vineyards and U.S. wine lovers. We focus exclusively on authentic Georgian wine, not mass-market labels:
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Direct partnerships with top wineries like Marani, Mosmieri, Alapiani, Binekhi, Wine Ponto
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Expert support for U.S. wine shops, distributors, and restaurant wine lists
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U.S. regulatory and distribution expertise
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Deep education and storytelling to elevate Georgian wine in the U.S.
Although we don’t sell direct to consumers, you’ll find our portfolio in select shops, wine bars, and restaurants nationwide — often with educational tasting support from Corus.
Taste the Legacy of Georgia
From bold Saperavi reds to golden amber Rkatsiteli and expressive Kisi wines, each bottle is a narrative — a convergence of terroir, tradition, and time.
Experience the depth of Georgian wine in the U.S. with Corus Imports.
Discover more and explore our curated catalog of heritage wines.