Educational, enlightening, fun, and engaging are just a few words used to describe the Georgian Palate masterclasses, a series of unique tastings conducted in the UK designed to showcase Georgian wines’ rich diversity and distinctive character. The masterclasses highlighted the wines’ compatibility with global and diverse cuisines and emphasised their place on wine lists around the world.
These events, aimed at sommeliers, press, and key figures in the trade, were hosted on behalf of the National Wine Agency of Georgia to emphasise one message: Georgian wines deserve a place on all wine lists, with something for everyone.
The first event in this tasting series was hosted in May in London, at 80-20 Peckham Rye, focusing on Qvevri amber wines—a signature of Georgian wine-making. Dubbed “Embracing Fine Amber”, this session introduced wine professionals to a carefully curated selection of ten Georgian wines paired with a globally inspired menu. Each dish, representing different countries, was selected to illustrate the versatility of Georgian wines, proving that they can complement a broad spectrum of international cuisines.
The attendees, including notable wine experts and wine communicators, engaged in discussions about the complexity that defines Georgian wines. This session established the tone for the remainder of the series, demonstrating how Georgian amber wines, which are rich in character and structure, can easily find a place in both fine wine programs and casual eating settings.
The second tasting session moved to Manchester in August and was held at The Beeswing Wine Bar. It focused on Iberian, Catalan, and Basque cuisine, illuminating how Georgian wines pair well with the colourful and flavourful food of the regions. The main focus was to highlight how well the Georgian wines pair with the robust, substantial flavours of the Mediterranean.
Feedback from attendees underscored the adaptability of these wines, as they enhanced rich and spiced flavors, showcasing the potential for Georgian wines to expand beyond niche markets and become staples in more adventurous wine lists across the UK.
The final tasting in the series took place in September at the Michelin-starred restaurant, Trivet in London. This event showcased the intricate relationship between food and wine, particularly the dynamic between tannins and textures. A menu of hearty, sophisticated dishes was expertly paired with both amber wines and serious Saperavi selections. The focus here was on how Georgian wines can enhance complex flavours in haute cuisine, demonstrating their originality and sophistication.
The elegant setting of Trivet, paired with the exquisite wines, left a lasting impression on attendees, who left with a deeper appreciation for the nuances Georgian wines can bring to fine dining.
Throughout these tastings, the overarching goal was clear: to show the wine industry that Georgian wines have a place on every wine list, from wine bars to fine dining establishments. Whether paired with global cuisine, Mediterranean fare, or innovative dishes, Georgian wines have the versatility to cater to diverse palates.
Read our previous blog posts to learn more about the growing presence of Georgian wines in the UK and their incredible potential to appeal to all palates.
