The Ultimate Guide to Georgian Wine: Grapes, Varieties, and How to Taste the Heritage of Georgia

Georgia isn’t just a destination on the map — it’s the birthplace of wine itself. Archaeological discoveries confirm that winemaking began here over 8,000 years ago, long before France, Italy, or Spain produced their first vintages. Today, Georgia continues to blend ancient winemaking traditions with modern craftsmanship, producing wines that are both timeless and innovative.

At Corus Imports, we’re proud to share the soul of Georgia through its most treasured export — wine. Whether you’re new to Georgian wines or looking to expand your collection, this guide covers everything you need to know about the country’s grapes, regions, styles, and pairings.

A Brief History of Georgian Wine

Georgia’s relationship with wine runs deeper than any other nation’s. Winemaking here dates back to around 6000 BCE, when early Georgians discovered that grape juice buried in clay vessels (called qvevri) naturally fermented into wine.

These qvevri — egg-shaped earthenware pots — became the foundation of Georgian winemaking. Recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, qvevri winemaking remains central to Georgian identity.

Even today, you’ll find families in Kakheti and Imereti crafting wine in their own cellars using the same ancient techniques — a testament to Georgia’s living wine culture.

Georgia’s Wine Regions

Georgia’s landscape is as diverse as its wine. Mountains, valleys, and rivers shape microclimates that produce unique grape expressions across the country.

Here are the main wine-growing regions:

1. Kakheti

The heart of Georgian wine production, Kakheti accounts for nearly 70% of the nation’s vineyards. Located in eastern Georgia, it’s known for Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Kisi.

2. Kartli

Located near the capital, Tbilisi, Kartli produces elegant and mineral-driven wines, especially Chinuri, Tavkveri, and Goruli Mtsvane.

3. Imereti

In western Georgia, Imereti wines are lighter, fresher, and made with less skin contact. Look for Tsitska, Krakhuna, and Tsolikouri.

4. Racha-Lechkhumi

This mountainous region in northwestern Georgia produces rare and semi-sweet reds like Khvanchkara, made from Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes.

5. Adjara & Guria

These humid coastal regions near the Black Sea grow lesser-known grapes like Chkhaveri, producing bright and aromatic rosés.

The Qvevri Tradition — Where Ancient Meets Modern

The qvevri (also spelled kvevri) is more than a vessel — it’s a symbol of Georgia’s winemaking soul. These massive clay amphorae are buried underground to maintain constant temperatures during fermentation.

Unlike stainless steel or oak barrels, qvevri allow slow micro-oxidation, resulting in wines that are deeply textured, earthy, and naturally stable.

Wines made in this way are often amber or orange in color — not because of added flavoring, but due to extended skin contact. The process yields wines with gentle tannins, herbal undertones, and remarkable complexity.

Famous Qvevri Producers:

• Alapiani Winery – celebrated for minimal-intervention wines

• Mosmieri Winery – combines traditional qvevri and modern winemaking

• Marani Winery – one of Georgia’s most internationally recognized producers

• Wine Ponto – boutique label known for artisanal small-batch wines

Key Georgian Grape Varieties and Their Profiles

Georgia is home to over 500 native grape varieties, though around 45 are cultivated commercially today. Each grape reflects its terroir and heritage — here are the most celebrated ones you’ll encounter.

1. Saperavi – The Bold Red of Georgia

• Type: Red

• Region: Kakheti

• Tasting Notes: Deep ruby color, full-bodied, with black cherry, plum, and licorice aromas.

• Body & Structure: High tannins, medium acidity, long finish.

• Pairing: Perfect with lamb, steak, barbecue, or spicy Georgian kharcho (meat stew).

Saperavi means “dye” in Georgian — a nod to its naturally pigmented pulp and skin. It’s one of the few teinturier grapes in the world. Depending on how it’s aged (oak vs. qvevri), Saperavi can range from robust and earthy to silky and refined.

If you’re new to Georgian wine, start with Saperavi — it embodies Georgia’s strength and soul.

2. Rkatsiteli – Crisp, Classic, and Versatile

• Type: White

• Region: Kakheti

• Tasting Notes: Green apple, quince, pear, and citrus zest.

• Body & Structure: Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity.

• Pairing: Pairs well with fish, poultry, salads, and mild cheeses.

Rkatsiteli (pronounced “rkah-tsee-teh-lee”) is Georgia’s most widely planted grape. When fermented in stainless steel, it yields clean, refreshing whites. In qvevri, it transforms into a golden amber wine with nutty and honeyed notes.

Rkatsiteli is also a cornerstone of many amber wines — rich, aromatic, and complex.

3. Kisi – Aromatic and Refined

• Type: White (Amber when skin-fermented)

• Region: Kakheti

• Tasting Notes: Apricot, almond, and floral hints with warm spice tones.

• Pairing: Great with spicy dishes, creamy sauces, or Georgian walnut-based salads (pkhali).

Kisi is one of Georgia’s most ancient and rediscovered grapes. In the hands of skilled winemakers, it produces balanced, aromatic wines with elegant tannins and beautiful depth.

4. Mtsvane Kakhuri – The Fresh and Fragrant White

• Type: White

• Region: Kakheti

• Tasting Notes: Citrus, green apple, peach, and wild herbs.

• Pairing: Ideal for seafood, grilled shrimp, or vegetarian plates.

Mtsvane literally means “green” in Georgian — a fitting description for its youthful freshness. It’s often blended with Rkatsiteli to enhance aroma and complexity.

Modern winemakers are crafting Mtsvane as both crisp whites and qvevri amber wines, each with remarkable character.

5. Chinuri – The Sparkling Star

• Type: White

• Region: Kartli

• Tasting Notes: Lively acidity with flavors of green pear, citrus, and minerals.

• Pairing: Perfect for appetizers, cheeses, and seafood.

Chinuri thrives in Georgia’s central highlands and is prized for its natural acidity — making it excellent for both still and sparkling wines.

It’s often used in Georgian pet-nat (natural sparkling) wines, bringing brightness and finesse to every bottle.

6. Tavkveri – The Playful Red

• Type: Red

• Region: Kartli and Kakheti

• Tasting Notes: Cherry, raspberry, and gentle spice with soft tannins.

• Pairing: Excellent with roasted chicken, charcuterie, or light pasta dishes.

Tavkveri produces fresh, fruit-forward reds that are easy to drink and food-friendly. It’s gaining popularity among natural wine enthusiasts for its balance and charm.

7. Tsitska, Krakhuna, and Tsolikouri – Imereti’s Trio of Whites

These three grapes define western Georgian winemaking — lighter, floral, and perfect for coastal climates.

• Tsitska: Dry and citrusy

• Krakhuna: Rich, full-bodied, with tropical notes

• Tsolikouri: Balanced, floral, with a touch of honey

Pair these wines with seafood, salads, or light cheeses — ideal for summer sipping.

Why Georgian Wine is Gaining Global Recognition

In recent years, Georgian wine exports have skyrocketed as wine lovers around the world discover its authenticity, minimal-intervention style, and organic methods.

With global interest in natural and sustainable wines, qvevri wines stand out as both ancient and modern — a bridge between past and future winemaking.

At Corus Imports, we’re proud to introduce these distinctive wines to new markets — from classic producers like Marani to boutique wineries like Mosmieri, Alapiani, and Wine Ponto.

Our mission is simple: to bring the true taste of Georgia to wine enthusiasts everywhere.

Explore the Corus Imports collection at corusus.com and bring the taste of Georgia to your table.