Georgian Qvevri Wine: Ancient Tradition, Modern Obsession

In recent years, wine lovers and professionals across the globe have developed a deep fascination with Georgian Qvevri wine — a traditional, ancient method of winemaking that’s not only still practiced today but is thriving in the modern wine scene. Whether you're a wine distributor, importer, or a sommelier seeking distinctive, terroir-driven wines for your program,

Qvevri wine offers a compelling story in every bottle.

But what exactly is Qvevri wine, and why is it so popular among natural wine advocates, sommeliers, and adventurous drinkers alike?

Let’s explore what makes Georgian Qvevri wine such an irresistible blend of history, terroir, and bold flavor — and how importers like Corus Imports are helping to introduce this tradition to new audiences across the U.S.

What is Qvevri Wine?

A Qvevri (pronounced kveh-vree) is a large, egg-shaped clay vessel traditionally buried underground and used for fermenting and aging wine. This ancient technique dates back over 8,000 years, originating in the fertile valleys of Georgia — a country nestled between Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

Inside these vessels, crushed grapes — including skins, seeds, and sometimes stems — undergo natural fermentation. The result is a wine rich in minerality and structure, often made with little to no intervention. While this method is especially known for amber wines (also called Georgian orange wine), it is also used for reds and whites.

In 2013, UNESCO recognized Qvevri winemaking as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, spotlighting Georgia’s enduring contribution to global viticulture.

Why Qvevri Wines Are So Popular Now

There’s been a modern surge in interest around low-intervention, authentic wines — and Qvevri wines from Georgia check all those boxes. But their appeal goes even deeper:

• Authenticity: These wines offer a raw, hands-off approach that resonates with today’s wine professionals and consumers seeking transparency.

• Flavor: Bold, unfiltered, textured — Qvevri wines deliver earthy complexity with tannic grip, even in whites.

• Terroir: The clay vessel’s micro-oxygenation highlights the grape and land’s natural character like few other methods can.

For wine buyers, this is more than a trend — it’s a timeless technique with modern appeal.

Where Does Qvevri Wine Come From?

Though Qvevri winemaking occurs across Georgia, it’s most deeply rooted in the Kakheti region in eastern Georgia — the heart of the country’s winemaking tradition.

Kakheti: The Soul of Georgian Wine

Known for its dry climate and fertile soils, Kakheti is home to many of Georgia’s most iconic producers. Towns like Telavi and Sighnaghi are surrounded by family wineries and historic estates using Qvevri methods to craft everything from Saperavi reds to amber Rkatsiteli.

Top Qvevri producers from the region include:

• Kalo

• Marani

• Mtevino

• Vaziani

Other notable regions include:

• Imereti: Lighter styles and partial Qvevri use, often represented by producers like Mosmieri.

• Racha-Lechkhumi: Known for Khvanchkara, a naturally semi-sweet red from grapes like Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli.

• Kartli: Produces structured whites and refined reds with some European influence. A great example of this style can be found at Rtoni.

Grape Varieties Commonly Used in Qvevri Wines

Georgia boasts more than 500 indigenous grape varieties — many used in Qvevri winemaking. Here are a few of the most important:

• Rkatsiteli: A versatile white grape ideal for amber wines, known for apricot, walnut, and herbal notes. Try offerings from GK Winery and Alapiani.

• Saperavi: A red-fleshed grape producing deeply pigmented, full-bodied reds ideal for aging — highlighted by wineries like GRW and Binekhi.

• Mtsvane: Fresh and citrusy, often blended with Rkatsiteli; featured by producers like Winera.

• Khikhvi: Floral and spicy, perfect for amber expressions; seen in wines by Vine Ponto.

Georgian Amber Wine: Qvevri’s Signature Style

One of the most exciting global wine trends is the return of amber wine — and Georgia is its undisputed origin.

What is Amber Wine?

Made from white grapes fermented with skins and seeds, amber wine gets its bold color and tannic structure from extended contact with grape solids — just like red wine. When aged in Qvevri, these wines show layered complexity with notes of:

• Dried apricot

• Almond and walnut

• Tea leaves

• Honey

• Earthy spice

If you’re looking to experience the best Georgian amber wines, browse selections from trusted producers like Ancient Valley and Alapiani.

Georgian Wine in the USA

As interest in Georgian wine grows, importers like Corus Imports are playing a key role in introducing Qvevri wines to new markets across the United States. We do not sell retail — instead, we work directly with wine distributors, restaurants, and specialty wine shops to bring authentic Georgian wines into curated portfolios and cellars.

You’ll find wines from producers such as:

• Marani Winery Georgia

• Alapiani Winery

• GK Winery

• Vine Ponto

• Mosmieri

• GRW

• Mtevino

• Binekhi

• Kalo

• Winera

• Rtoni

• Vaziani

• Ancient Valley

Tips for First-Time Qvevri Wine Buyers (B2B)

If you’re considering adding Qvevri wines to your distribution portfolio or restaurant wine list, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Expect texture and sediment – Qvevri wines are often unfiltered and unfined, which results in more rustic texture and occasional natural sediment. This is a feature, not a flaw — a mark of their traditional production.

• Pair them intentionally – These wines shine when paired with roasted meats, aged cheeses, lamb dishes, mushrooms, and bold, earthy cuisines. Their complexity makes them versatile in both elevated and rustic settings.

• Look for key terms – Keep an eye out for wines labeled “Qvevri,” “Amber,” “Rkatsiteli,” or “Saperavi.” These are often indicators of authentic Georgian winemaking and include both whites and reds with character and structure.

• Source from trusted importers – Corus Imports works exclusively with vetted Georgian producers who honor traditional methods, including wineries like Marani, Mosmieri, GK Winery, Vaziani, Binekhi, and others.

By working with Corus, buyers gain access to a curated list of boutique and heritage producers such as Kalo, Winera, Rtoni, Ancient Valley, and Alapiani — each bringing something unique to the table while staying rooted in Georgia’s 8,000-year winemaking tradition.

The Future of Georgian Qvevri Wine

As the natural wine movement continues to thrive globally, Georgian Qvevri wine is enjoying a renaissance. It’s being featured in high-end wine bars, progressive retail shops, and farm-to-table restaurants worldwide — especially in the U.S., where sommeliers and buyers seek authentic, low-intervention wines with a story.

For importers, distributors, and on-premise buyers, Qvevri wine offers a powerful blend of:

• Authenticity – Rooted in ancient tradition, made without industrial shortcuts.

• Cultural heritage – Unique to the Kakheti region of Georgia and deeply tied to national identity.

• Market differentiation – Bold packaging, unfamiliar varietals, and educational value offer something fresh to consumers.

Featured producers like Mtevino, GRW (Georgian Royal Wine), and Vine Ponto are at the forefront of this new wave — blending old-world winemaking with modern distribution and branding strategies.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to diversify your wine portfolio, cater to natural wine enthusiasts, or highlight cultural heritage in your program, Georgian Qvevri wines offer unmatched depth, identity, and story.

Connect with Corus Imports to explore sourcing opportunities from Georgia’s top Qvevri producers — and become a part of the movement to preserve and promote one of the world’s most ancient winemaking traditions.