Tsolikouri
The leading white grape of western Georgia, Tsolikouri originates in Kolkheti (ancient Colchis, the land of the Golden Fleece). The origins of its name are uncertain. The vine has medium-sized,…
Mtsvane Kakhuri
This name means “green Kakheti,” and is usually called simply “Mtsvane” (Green). Mtsvane Kakhuri is one of six different Mtsvane that grow throughout Georgia, each with a different DNA fingerprint,…
Khikhvi
The origins of Khikhvi’s name are unknown, but it grows widely in eastern Georgia, especially in Kakheti it originated. Most plantings are on the East-Southeast reaches of the province, on…
Chinuri
Iv. Javakhishvili, an early 20th Century historian, argued that Chinuri’s name derives the old Georgian word “chini” (reddish-green), but commentators now contend it comes the Georgian word “chinebuli” meaning “excellent”…
Goruli Mtsvane – a white grape to watch
Goruli Mtsvane (pronounced Go-roo-lee Mah-ts-vah-nay) may not be as well known as its white counterparts Rkatsiteli or Kisi, but its well worth seeking out. Goruli Mtsvane originates from Kartli, one…
Khikhvi: the ‘unsung hero’ grape of Georgia?
In a country overflowing with native grape varieties, it’s inevitable that the origins of some may fade into obscurity. Khikhvi is one such grape – it grows widely in Eastern…
A grape by any other name: Tsitska
If you’re looking for a high-quality, soft and approachable white wine, then look no further than Tsitska. Indeed, in upper and central Imereti, Tsitska is principally used to make sought…
Textured, mineral whites: if you like this try…
Do you like rich, textural white wines? Love an oaked Chardonnay, with its creamy mouthfeel? Perhaps you favour a rich style of Pinot Grigio, or a white Rioja with its…
Fruity, aromatic whites: if you like this try…
We know that for many drinkers, Georgian varieties can seem a little daunting because the names and pronunciations are so different than familiar European varieties. So, we want to make…
Krakhuna: the star of Western Georgia
In a country overflowing with ancient grape varieties, Krakhuna is one of the oldest. And is happily easier to pronounce than many other Georgian grapes! Indigenous to Imereti in the…