Georgia is home to one of the oldest winemaking traditions in the world, with a legacy of approximately 8,000 years. The country, richly endowed with over 400 indigenous grape varieties and nine distinct wine regions, has developed unique winemaking techniques, including the ancient practice of fermenting wines in qvevri—traditional clay vessels. The recent tasting event organized by The World of Fine Wine shed light on the contemporary expressions of Georgian wines, particularly those made with skin contact.
In total, 46 wines were evaluated, categorized into classically vinified whites, amber wines from white varieties, and both classical and qvevri-vinified reds. This testing showcased an impressive diversity of grape varieties. The majority of the wines were sourced from Kakheti, a region that constitutes 77% of the country’s vineyard area, while also featuring selections from Guria, Kartli, and Imereti.
The results were promising, indicating a growing appreciation for Georgian wines. Out of the 46 wines, 30 received scores of 89 points or above, marking them as "Very good wine." The panel expressed a clear preference for qvevri-fermented amber wines and classic whites over reds. The qvevri wines, referred to as the stars of the tasting, stood out for their aromatic complexity and depth, making them memorable both on their own and with food.
However, the classical white wines, while technically sound, failed to match the character and appeal of the amber and red offerings. Tasters noted that these wines, though pleasant, lacked distinctive traits that might attract newcomers to Georgian wines, suggesting that more needs to be done to enhance the profiles of these classical varietals.
Red wines elicited varied opinions. While some panelists found them disappointing, others appreciated the diversity in styles, notably from the Saperavi grape, renowned for its character.
Ultimately, the tasting reaffirmed that Georgia’s qvevri wines not only preserve ancient techniques but also continue to evolve and excite modern palates. They provide an original and distinctive tasting experience that is not to be missed for anyone passionate about exploring the world of fine wine.
For more about Georgia’s renowned winemaking and grape varieties, visit Georgia and qvevri.