Georgia’s have again impressed at the IWSC 2024 wine judging awards held in Georgia. The event, supported by The Gurjaani Wine Festival and the National Wine Agency of Georgia, saw experts including David Kermode, Will Hill, Cat Lomax, and Alistair Cooper MW give Georgian wines their considered approval.
The quality of Georgian wines is clear: over 60% of the 450 entries won medals, with 18 striking gold. This follows last year’s strong showing and cements Georgian wine’s high standards.
The diversity of Georgian wine is a big draw. Judges praised the varied styles, especially the qvevri-made skin-contact wines. These traditional clay pot wines stand out for their unique texture and grape expression.
Standout grapes include the popular Saperavi, similar to Malbec in its appeal. It’s a hit with both casual and serious wine drinkers and ages well. Other noteworthy grapes are Kisi, Rkatsiteli, Khikhvi, and Mtsvane Kakhuri, each bringing something special to the table.
For Georgian wine exports to grow, the judges commented that tannin management is key. Affordable, fruity Saperavi wines can attract new fans. Building relationships with independent retailers can also help spread the word about Georgian wines.
In short, Georgian wines are making waves globally, blending age-old traditions with modern winemaking. They offer a unique experience that’s rooted in Georgia’s rich wine culture. For a full picture of Georgia’s wine scene, and to view details on the medal-winning wines, check out the full article.
