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What to drink in Kakheti? Top 7 Local Beverages in Kakheti

Last update: Thu Jan 30 2025
Top 7 Local Beverages in Kakheti
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Kakheti Beverage Types

01

Wine Variety

KAKHETI, Georgia
4.5
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Saperavi is a resilient red Georgian grape that originated in the eastern region of Kakheti, and though it is still predominant in Georgia, small amounts are also grown in other Eastern European regions, Australia, and the United States.


This teinturier grape that has dark skins and flesh produces full-bodied wines of a dark garnet color which are characterized by aromas of ripe red berries and pleasant acidity. Most wines produced from the Saperavi grapes are varietal and have a great tendency to age.


Sapervai wines are incredibly versatile and can match a variety of dishes, including delicate fish dishes, stews, grilled meat, or game.

02

Wine Variety

KAKHETI, Georgia
4.2
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Kisi is a native Georgian variety that is mainly associated with Kakheti. Like many Georgian grapes, this white variety is also used for classic dry styles and traditional Georgian amber wines made in large clay vessels (qvevri).


The grape is often blended with Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane Kakhuri. By the 2000s, Kisi was almost extinct, but it is slowly being introduced as a local grape with excellent potential. Classic dry wines are crisp and bright. They have a medium body and aromas reminiscent of flowers, citrus fruit, apples, pears, and peaches. 
03
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Mtsvane Kakhuri, or simply Mtsvane, is an aromatic white grape native to Georgia. The grape produces alcoholic and tannic white wines. It is mainly found in Kakheti, where it is used in varietals and blends and several regional appellations.


Although suitable for various styles, it is primarily used for dry wines and traditional wines made in qvevri—terracotta pots used for fermentation and maturation. Dry white wines made from Mtsvane are fresh and light. They will usually have aromas reminiscent of white and yellow fruit, flowers, and citrus, often accompanied by herbal and mineral notes. 
04

Wine Variety

KAKHETI, Georgia
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Arguably the most popular white grape in Georgia and possibly one of the oldest grapes in the world, Rkatsiteli is an incredibly versatile variety used in the production of brandy and dry, sparkling, fortified, and dessert wines. Although it is grown in several other European countries, this ancient grape remains one of the flagship Georgian varieties.


Although it is grown in other regions, it is native to Kakheti. It is resilient to harsh weather conditions, retains excellent acidity, and achieves high sugars. Dry Rkatsiteli wines are light and refreshing. They tend to have an excellent balance of crisp acidity and sweetness that is complemented by complex and subtly spicy aromas of flowers, green apple, quince, and white peaches. 
05
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Tsinandali is a Georgian appellation for white wines produced with a blend of local Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane varieties. It is located in Kakheti, more precisely in the regions Telavi and Kvareli. The appellation includes classic dry wines and traditional Georgian wines made in qvevri (clay amphora).


The resulting wines are straw-colored, light, and refreshing, usually packed with bright acidity. Typical aromas include a blend of yellow, white, and stone fruit and some citrus and floral notes. Qvevri-made wines will have more tannins and aromas that are often reminiscent of apricots. 
06

Wine Variety

KAKHETI, Georgia
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Tavkveri is a native Georgian grape that produces juicy and lively wines. The grape is cultivated in eastern and central Georgia, mainly in Kakheti and Kartli. It is used for varietals and red and rosé blends. Tavkveri is suitable for various wine styles and can be used for classic styles and regional qvevri (amphora) wines.


Because they typically have an approachable and easy-drinking character, these wines can be enjoyed young. They usually have red and dark fruit aromas reminiscent of cherries, raspberries, plums, and blackcurrants. Sometimes, they will have some balsamic nuances and subtle spicy or earthy notes. 
07

Wine Appellation

SAGAREJO, Georgia
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Manavi is a Georgian appellation for dry white wines made exclusively with the native Kakhuri Mtsvane variety. The appellation is situated in Kakheti, more precisely in the Sagarejo region around the Gombori Mountains. The wines have a distinctive straw color and a light green hue.


The aroma is floral and fruity, reminiscent of white and yellow fruit and wildflowers. They have bright acidity and a subtle, mineral character. It is a suitable pairing with fish and seafood, white meat, and salads.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Kakheti Beverages

01
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AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show

2021

02

Wine

KAKHETI, Georgia
5.0
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AWARDS

International Wine Challenge - IWC Champion Red Wine 2020

2020

03
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AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show

2019

04
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AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show

2020

05
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AWARDS

Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or

2024

06
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AWARDS

Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold

2018

07
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AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum

2020

08
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AWARDS

Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum

2020

09
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AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold

2021

10
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AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold

2021

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