Serving Georgian Wine the Right Way: Temperature, Glassware & Decanting

Georgian wine carries over 8,000 years of winemaking tradition — and serving it correctly allows those centuries of craftsmanship to truly shine. From bold Saperavi reds to expressive amber wines aged in qvevri, proper temperature, glassware, and decanting can dramatically enhance aroma, flavor, and balance.

At Corus Imports, we believe that enjoying Georgian wine the right way is just as important as choosing the right bottle. Here’s your practical guide to serving Georgian wine like a pro.

The Ideal Serving Temperatures for Georgian Wine

Temperature plays a crucial role in how Georgian wine expresses itself. Too cold, and aromas are muted. Too warm, and alcohol can overpower nuance.

Red Georgian Wines

Examples: Saperavi, Mukuzani, KindzmarauliIdeal Temperature: 60–65°F (15–18°C)

These bold, structured reds benefit from being slightly cooler than room temperature. This keeps tannins balanced and highlights dark fruit, spice, and earth.

Tip: If the bottle feels warm, chill it for 15–20 minutes before serving.

White Georgian Wines

Examples: Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, ChinuriIdeal Temperature: 45–50°F (7–10°C)

Fresh white Georgian wines shine when served cool, preserving their natural acidity and bright fruit character.

Tip: Avoid over-chilling — extreme cold can mask minerality and texture.

Amber (Orange) Georgian Wines

Examples: Qvevri Rkatsiteli, Kisi, Kakhuri blendsIdeal Temperature: 50–55°F (10–13°C)

Amber wines sit beautifully between red and white serving temperatures. This range unlocks their layered structure, tea-like tannins, and savory depth.

Tip: Serve amber wine too cold and it loses complexity; too warm and it feels heavy.

Choosing the Right Glassware for Georgian Wine

Glassware matters more than most people realize — especially for expressive, natural wines.

For Red Georgian Wines

Best Glass: Large-bowled red wine glass (Bordeaux-style)Allows oxygen to soften tannins and release deep aromas of blackberry, plum, and spice.

For White Georgian Wines

Best Glass: Standard white wine glassNarrower bowls preserve freshness and acidity while focusing delicate aromas.

For Amber & Qvevri Wines

Best Glass: Universal or Burgundy-style glassThe wider bowl gives skin-contact wines room to breathe, enhancing texture and complexity.

Pro Tip: Avoid small glasses — Georgian wines are built for expression.

When (and How) to Decant Georgian Wine

Decanting isn’t just for old wines — many Georgian wines benefit from air.

Wines That Benefit from Decanting

• Young Saperavi

• Qvevri amber wines

• Unfiltered or natural Georgian wines

Decant Time: 20–45 minutesThis softens structure, opens aromas, and integrates earthy or herbal notes.

Wines That Don’t Need Decanting

• Fresh whites

• Sparkling Georgian wines

• Light, aromatic styles

Tip: If sediment is present (common in natural wines), decant gently to keep the pour clean.

Serving Georgian Wine the Traditional Way

In Georgia, wine is more than a beverage — it’s part of the supra, a communal feast led by a toastmaster (tamada). Wine is poured generously, shared slowly, and appreciated thoughtfully.

To honor that tradition:

• Serve wine at the table, not rushed

• Let bottles breathe

• Revisit the glass as the wine evolves

Georgian wines are alive — and they reward patience.

Why Proper Serving Makes All the Difference

With ancient techniques like qvevri fermentation and minimal intervention, Georgian wines are highly expressive. Serving them properly allows you to experience:

• Fuller aromas

• Better balance

• Greater depth and texture

• A more authentic connection to Georgia’s winemaking heritage

At Corus Imports, we proudly bring these wines from Georgia’s historic vineyards to the U.S., representing respected producers like Marani, Mosmieri, Alapiani, Wine Ponto, and more.

Ready to enjoy Georgian wine the way it was meant to be served? Visit corusimports.com to explore our curated portfolio and elevate every bottle — from first pour to final toast.