If You Like This, Drink That - Georgian Wine Edition

 

16th April 2026

What is Georgian wine like? We at Georgian Wine UK know this eternal question too well. You want to try something new, but you don’t quite know where to start and what to expect. So you reach for your usual Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, play it safe, and avoid surprises.

The thing is, Georgian wine isn’t as far from your comfort zone as it might look. You don’t need astronaut training to pick up a bottle with a name like Rkatsiteli on the label. Yes, it looks intimidating at first glance. But then again, people happily order Moschofilero these days — and love it! Even Mgaloblishvili starts to feel manageable after that.

What we’re trying to say is simple: behind those unfamiliar names are styles you already understand — fresh, crisp whites, structured reds, easy-drinking bottles for a Tuesday night. You’re not starting from zero, you’re just learning a new language for flavours you already like.

If you like unoaked Chardonnay or Chenin Blanc, drink Rkatsiteli-based whites.They are crisp, structured, and fairly neutral, letting the winemaking style come through. Also try a Tsinandali blend — usually dominated by Rkatsiteli, with fresh citrus and a light blossom note.

Our picks:Kinkladze Tsinandali

If you like slightly oaked Chardonnay, try oaked Goruli Mtsvane or Rkatsiteli.These wines have more texture and roundness, riper fruit, and a gentle touch of vanilla and spice from the oak.

Our picks:Chateau Mukhrani Goruli Mtsvane or Mildiani Tsinandali Reserve

If you like Sauvignon Blanc, go for Kakhuri Mtsvane or Kisi.Fresh and aromatic, with lively acidity and hints of green herbs, orchard fruit, and a touch of leafiness.

Our picks:Askaneli Kisi or Tiko Estate Mtsvane

If you like Pinot Grigio or Albariño, try Tsitska or Krakhuna (unoaked).Light, clean, and easy to drink, often with a subtle saline edge that makes them very refreshing.

Our picks:Dugladze Krakhuna or Villa Mosavali Tsitska

If you like Vermentino or Soave, look for Tsitska, Tsolikouri, or their blendBright citrus, soft orchard fruit, and a very food-friendly style that works across a wide range of dishes.

Our picks:Dugladze Tsolikouri

If you are into Pinot Gris, think about Khikhvi (even light amber versions).You are seemingly no stranger to fuller body and stronger aromatics, so why not try something new?

Our picks: Periani Khikhvi or Guramishvili Marani Khikhvi

And if you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain, maybe try thisKisi, because it has all the vanilla and tropical fruits… and will give you the kick of novelty you’re waiting for!

Georgian reds are very Saperavi-centric, but there is a stylistic variety within this Saperaviverse. Let us help you navigate it!

If you like Malbec or soft Bordeaux blends - drink oaked Saperavi.

Plush dark fruit, smooth texture, a touch of oak sweetness. It sits in that very approachable, slightly polished style — easy to like, easy to pour.

Our picks: M&S Found Saperavi

If you like Merlot - drink fruit-forward Saperavi.

Round, fruit-led, not too aggressive. Still dark and structured, but more about drinkability than power.

Our picks: Tbilvino Saperavi

If you like Syrah (cool climate) - drink aged Otskhanuri Sapere.

More structure, more edge. Expect spice, darker savoury tones, and a firmer frame. Less “friendly fruit”, more character.

Our picks: Dugladze Otskhanuri Sapere Reserve

If you like off-dry reds (Zinfandel style) - drink Kindzmarauli.

Juicy, slightly sweet, very fruit-driven. This is comfort wine: not about structure, more about pleasure.

Our picks: Giuaani Kindzmarauli

Let us know if you find this list useful, and keep exploring the world of Georgian wine!

 
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Georgian Wine Labels: A Practical Guide for Sommeliers and Buyers