Best Georgian Red Wine Types
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.
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.
Shavkapito is a red Georgian grape native to the Kartli region. The grape is rarely cultivated, but it has great potential, and the plantings in the native Kartli region are increasing. The variety is used for dry red wines, but it is also sometimes used for regional qvevri (amphora) styles.
The wines are usually medium-bodied and fruity. As the grape is terroir-driven, the resulting wines may slightly differ in character, and higher elevation vines will result in lighter and more vibrant expressions. Shavkapito typically displays red and dark fruit aroma, sometimes with a jammy character and occasionally herbal nuances and subtle smoky notes.
Best Georgian Red Wine Producers
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2018
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2021
BEST Kakhuri Gvinis Marani Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2023
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2024
BEST Ruispiri Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2021
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2020, 2019
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2020
BEST Teliani Valley Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2017
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2024, 2021
BEST Badagoni Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2021
International Wine Challenge - IWC Champion Red Wine 2020
2020
BEST Tbilvino Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024
BEST Mildiani Family Winery Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2023, 2021
BEST JSC Telavi Wine Cellar Wines
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2017
BEST Château Mukhrani Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Kartveli Wines
Best Georgian Red Wines
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2021
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2024
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2022
AWARDS
Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold
2018
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2024
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2020
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2017
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