Classification: Red dry regional wine
Terroir: Kakheti, “Tsinandali” micro-zone, Terroir “Valley of roses”
Vinification: Fermented into the stainless steel tank with full amount of hard parts of the grapes
Grape variety: Saperavi (100%)
Tasting Notes
Saperavi is a wine that captivates the senses, showcasing the rich heritage of Georgian winemaking. Here’s an in-depth look at its tasting profile:
Appearance:Saperavi is known for its deep, inky red color, often resembling a dark ruby or garnet hue. The wine’s opacity hints at its robust character and rich flavor profile, drawing you into its complexity.
Aroma:The bouquet of Saperavi is captivating and multi-layered. It often opens with intense aromas of ripe black fruits such as blackberries, black cherries, and plums. It is a full bodied, well-balanced and harmonious, with fresh acidity and velvety tannins.
Palate:On the palate, Saperavi is full-bodied, boasting a rich and velvety mouthfeel. The initial burst of dark fruit flavors is complemented by vibrant acidity, providing a refreshing balance that enhances the wine’s complexity.
The tannins are firm yet silky, contributing to the wine’s structure and age-worthiness. This astringency can soften over time, revealing a more integrated character as the wine matures.
As you savor the wine, expect layers of flavor that unfold: rich dark fruit, subtle earthy undertones, and a hint of minerality, particularly in wines made from grapes grown in unique terroirs.
The finish is long and lingering, often leaving a warm sensation on the palate, with notes of dark chocolate and a touch of smokiness that invites you back for another sip.
is an acidic, teinturier-type grape variety native to Georgia, known for producing some of the region’s most celebrated wines. With its deep color and robust flavors, Saperavi embodies the essence of Georgian winemaking and has garnered attention on the global wine stage.
Characteristics
Grape Characteristics
Saperavi grapes are medium to large, with thick, dark skins that yield wines of deep, inky color, high acidity, and robust tannins. They often carry a mix of ripe black fruit flavors, such as blackberries and plums, accompanied by hints of spice. Saperavi’s hardy nature allows it to thrive in Georgia’s diverse climates, making it a resilient choice for winemakers.
Geography
Originating in the Kakheti region of Eastern Georgia, Saperavi is now grown throughout the country, including regions such as Saingilo, Kartli, Shavshet-Klarjeti, Imereti, Guria, Racha, and Lechkhumi. It is one of the oldest cultivars from the region and is the most significant in Georgia’s commercial winemaking industry.
Winemaking Techniques
Georgian Saperavi wines are often aged in traditional clay vessels called qvevri, buried underground to control fermentation temperature. This ancient method imparts unique complexity and richness to the wines. However, Saperavi is also produced in other countries, such as Australia, Moldova, and Ukraine, each offering its own interpretation of this remarkable grape.
Saperavi’s bold flavors and robust structure make it a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some detailed food pairing suggestions:
Nestled at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has long been rev
Rich Meats:
Grilled or Roasted Lamb: The earthy flavors of lamb are complemented by the wine’s dark fruit and spice notes, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Beef Stew: A hearty beef stew, rich in flavors and perhaps featuring root vegetables, can stand up to Saperavi’s bold profile, allowing the wine to enhance the dish’s richness.
Game Meats:
Roasted Venison or Wild Boar: The gamey flavors of these meats are beautifully complemented by Saperavi, highlighting the wine’s earthy and spicy characteristics.
Pasta Dishes:
Pasta with Rich Tomato Sauces: Dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna with hearty meat sauces benefit from Saperavi’s acidity and tannin structure, which help balance the richness of the sauce.
Aged Cheeses:
Hard Cheeses: Pair Saperavi with aged cheeses like Gruyère or aged Cheddar. The wine’s tannins cut through the creaminess of the cheese, enhancing the flavors of both.
Grilled Vegetables:
Vegetable Skewers: Grilled eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs provide a delightful contrast to the wine’s richness, creating a balanced meal.
Spicy BBQ Ribs: The wine’s bold fruitiness can complement the smokiness and heat of BBQ ribs, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Hearty Stews:
Chili or Georgian Kharcho: Saperavi’s robust flavors make it an excellent companion for hearty stews, especially those with a touch of spice.
Sausage
