Do you love supple, textured, scented red wines? Love cool-climate Syrah, a Rioja or other good Tempranillo? Or perhaps you favour a New Zealand Pinot Noir or supple European Merlot? With the nights drawing in there’s no better time to uncork a supple, textured, scented red wine for something warming and food-friendly. It’s the time of year where something supple, midly spicey and full of rich, lush fruit flavours really hits the spot. But there’s no need to feel tied to the usual suspects. We’ve got some excellent Georgian alternatives for you to try.
Shavkapito
Shavkapito has naturally low alcohol levels, especially for a red grape. This makes it a great option for those who prefer wines with moderate alcohol – combined with the lush soft texture, it makes for a eminently quaffable drink.
You can find out more about it here.
Try this from Noble Green Wines.
Aleksandrouli
Aleksandrouli’s flavour profile is packed with red berries, cherries and mulberries (“tuta”). As a dry wine it has notes tobacco, pepper and meaty flavours and its chewy character and supple tannins suggest considerable potential to improve in bottle.
You can find out more about it here.
Try this from the Georgian Wine Society.
Usakhelouri
Legend has it that Usakhelouri was saved from extinction in the village of Okureshuli by a young winemaker who put up a banner offering to buy any Usakhelouri grapes people could pick. He brought up the meagre seven kilos that the villagers were able to find – and the next year the whole village was out looking for Usakhelouri.
You can find out more about it here.
Napareuli PDO
Napareuli PDO wines are made from Georgian-favourite Saperavi – and the wines are distinguished by their deep dark red colour, velvety texture and well-developed bouquet. It’s also a great idea to try out more Saperavi from other cooler-climate sites.
