What Is Georgian Amber Wine? Taste, Origins & Why It’s Trending

If you’ve ever sipped an amber wine and wondered about its golden hue and tannic complexity, chances are it may have originated in Georgia — the country, not the U.S. state. Georgian amber wine is more than a trendy natural wine darling; it’s a tradition that’s been alive for over 8,000 years. In this guide, we’ll explore what Georgian amber wine is, its unique flavor profile, how it’s made, and why now is the perfect time for importers, wine buyers, restaurants, and distributors to discover it.

What Is Georgian Amber Wine?

Georgian amber wine — often referred to as Georgian orange wine — is made using white grape varieties that are fermented with their skins, seeds, and sometimes stems, much like how red wines are produced. This ancient technique imparts a distinctive amber or copper hue, along with complex flavors, tannins, and a fuller body.

While “orange wine” has become a buzzword in the natural wine world, amber wine from Georgia is the original. It represents centuries of tradition passed down through generations. With increasing demand for natural and artisanal wines, amber wine is gaining traction in restaurants, wine bars, and curated wine programs around the globe.

The Qvevri Method: Ancient Clay, Modern Demand

At the heart of Georgian winemaking lies the qvevri, a massive, egg-shaped clay vessel buried underground. Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance, the qvevri method is a defining feature of traditional Georgian wine, especially amber styles.

After the grapes are crushed, the entire mash (juice, skins, seeds, and sometimes stems) is placed into a qvevri, sealed, and left to ferment naturally for five to six months or longer. This method allows for:

• Rich, textural development with subtle oxidation

• Low-intervention, organic-friendly winemaking

• Natural temperature control through underground aging

For sommeliers and wine buyers, qvevri wine offers a unique, conversation-starting addition to any wine list — one that reflects authenticity, heritage, and minimal manipulation.

Amber Wine Taste: What to Expect

Georgian amber wine stands out for its complex, savory character. Here’s what wine professionals and enthusiasts can expect:

• Color: Deep golden to coppery tones, often cloudy due to unfiltered methods

• Aromatics: Notes of dried apricots, orange peel, herbal tea, toasted nuts, and spice

• Palate: Structured, tannic, with an earthy depth and lingering finish

• Mouthfeel: Grippy yet smooth, with the body of a red and the freshness of a white

These wines pair exceptionally well with a wide variety of dishes, from aged cheeses and lamb stews to fermented vegetables and Mediterranean fare. For restaurants seeking a versatile and food-friendly wine, amber styles are a rewarding addition.

Why Is Georgian Amber Wine Special?

1. Ancient Winemaking, Still Alive

Georgia is widely recognized as the cradle of wine, with winemaking artifacts dating back over 8,000 years. Amber wine isn’t a modern innovation — it’s a continuation of one of the world’s oldest winemaking techniques. For importers and wine educators, Georgian amber wine provides an unparalleled story rooted in antiquity.

2. Indigenous Grapes

Georgia has over 500 native grape varieties. Amber wines are typically made from:

• Rkatsiteli – The most common variety, known for structure and balance

• Khikhvi – Aromatic, slightly spicy, and elegant

• Mtsvane – Citrus-driven, often blended with Rkatsiteli for brightness

Each variety offers a different expression of amber wine, allowing wine programs to curate diverse selections for different markets.

3. Low-Intervention Philosophy

Many Georgian amber wines are organic, unfiltered, and made with minimal sulfur. For restaurants and retailers that prioritize transparency and sustainability, wines from producers like Alapiani, Mosmieri, and Vineponto check all the boxes — tradition, terroir, and purity.

Why It’s Trending in the U.S.

Georgian amber wine has moved beyond trend status — it’s now a staple in natural wine circles, independent wine shops, and modern restaurant wine lists. Here’s why it’s resonating with the U.S. market:

• Natural Wine Boom – Consumers and buyers seek wines with a story and a sense of place

• Visual Appeal – The golden hue and minimalist, rustic labels catch the eye

• Culinary Versatility – Tannic structure holds up to complex dishes

• Education Value – Offers sommeliers a chance to introduce guests to an ancient, lesser-known style

Corus Imports: Your Link to Georgian Amber Wine

Corus Imports is a leading Georgian wine importer in the U.S., working exclusively with trusted producers across Georgia. We supply licensed retailers, distributors, restaurants, and hospitality clients looking for authentic, qvevri-aged Georgian wines.

By partnering with Corus, wine professionals can access:

• Exclusive partnerships with family-owned wineries such as Marani, GRW, and Rtoni

• A curated portfolio of rare varietals, amber blends, and small-lot production

• Full import expertise — logistics, compliance, and documentation

• Staff education and wine training support

Best Amber Wines for Wine Professionals

If you’re a buyer or sommelier looking to add Georgian amber wine to your program, here are standout producers available through Corus:

• Alapiani Rkatsiteli Qvevri – Bold and elegant with stone fruit and dried herbs

• Marani Rkatsiteli Amber – A classic expression with wide appeal

• Mosmieri Qvevri White – Textural and food-friendly

• Binekhi Khikhvi Amber – Floral and refined for fine-dining

• Vaziani Amber Blend – Traditional and structured, perfect with rich dishes

How to Source Georgian Amber Wine Through an Importer

If you're a licensed buyer in the U.S., sourcing through a direct importer like Corus Imports ensures:

• Authenticity – Direct shipment with full traceability

• Diversity – Access to lesser-known grapes and regions

• Support – Help with logistics, compliance, and marketing assets

• Differentiation – Wines not commonly available at retail

Unlike online retailers, Corus Imports serves the wholesale tier with tailored services for trade clients.

Final Thoughts: Georgian Amber Wine for the Trade

Georgian amber wine isn’t just another SKU — it’s a cultural symbol and storytelling opportunity. For wine directors, buyers, and importers seeking meaningful additions to their portfolio, these wines deliver unmatched history, flavor, and integrity.

As American consumers grow more adventurous, demand for authentic Georgian wines continues to rise. If you want to bring amber wine from Georgia into your offerings, partner with Corus Imports — your gateway to the soul of 8,000 years of winemaking.

Connect With Corus Imports

Interested in adding Georgian amber wines to your business portfolio? Visit Corus Imports or reach out for our full catalog of available producers and varietals. Our team will help guide your selection and ensure seamless importation for wholesale or on-premise needs.

Raise a glass — and your wine list — with the soul of Georgia in every bottle.