The wine industry is evolving as consumers embrace unique, authentic experiences alongside traditional options. Natural wine, produced with minimal intervention, natural fermentation, and little to no sulfites, has surged in popularity. While this approach is certainly trending, its roots stretch back thousands of years to Georgia, where winemaking traditions have flourished for over 8,000 years, earning it the title “cradle of wine.” The country’s unique approach to wine production involves using qvevris — large clay vessels — to ferment and store wine. This method gives the wines distinctive flavors and textures, with complex, often earthy profiles.
Georgia is also known for its more than 500 indigenous grape varieties, with Saperavi being the most famous red variety among them. While Saperavi is known for being bold and dry, making it a perfect accompaniment to rich holiday meals, the grapes themselves are versatile lending themselves to other varieties like the semi-sweet Kindzmarauli (pronounced KINDZ-mah-rau-lee).
How Is Kindzmarauli Wine Crafted?
Kindzmarauli is crafted from Saperavi grapes grown exclusively in the Kindzmarauli micro-viticulture area within Georgia’s Kakheti region. Kakheti, renowned as one of Georgia’s most famed and stunning wine regions, is further divided into micro-viticulture areas defined by factors such as soil composition, climate, altitude, and sunlight exposure. These unique conditions shape the distinct characteristics of wines from each area. While Saperavi grapes are typically used to produce dry wines, the warmer temperatures in the Kindzmarauli micro-area accelerate grape ripening, leading to higher residual sugar levels.
One of Georgia’s premier semi-sweet wines, Kindzmarauli ranges in color from deep plum to a lighter, more transparent red and features notes of cherries, blackberries, currants, and hints of vanilla. It’s known for its balanced sweetness, which is offset by its natural acidity, smooth tannic structure, and long finish. Kindzmarauli typically has an alcohol percentage of 10-12%.
Kindzmarauli wine is typically produced using modern or European methods, which involve stainless steel or oak fermentation and storage. However, some producers may incorporate qvevri fermentation for certain styles of wine, depending on their approach.
How to Serve Kindzmarauli Wine
Kindzmarauli wine is best served slightly chilled at a temperature of 57-61°F (14-16°C) to enhance its fruity flavors and balanced sweetness. Standard red wine glasses — those with a wide bowl and tapered rim — should be used to fully appreciate its aroma and flavor profile. Like most red wines, Kindzmarauli should ideally be consumed within 1-3 days of opening and kept in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and flavor. Before opening your bottle of wine, it should be stored on its side in a cool location away from any light.
What Food Pairs Well with Kindzmarauli Wine?
Kindzmarauli wine, with its semi-sweet profile and fruity flavors, pairs well with a variety of dishes, including both savory and sweet options. For savory pairings, try meats with sweeter sauces that complement the wine’s character, such as honey-glazed chicken, teriyaki dishes, or barbecue dishes. When it comes to vegetarian options, roasted root vegetables, caramelized onions, and dishes featuring eggplant or mushrooms pair beautifully with Kindzmarauli wine, as their earthy and subtly sweet flavors complement the wine’s semi-sweet profile. It also pairs well with creamy cheeses like brie and camembert, as well as aged sheep cheeses such as pecorino romano and manchego.
For dessert, Kindzmarauli pairs well with chocolate desserts or fruit-forward options like cherry tarts or berry compotes. Its balanced sweetness also makes it a perfect wine to enjoy on its own as a digestif.
Shop a Curated Selection of Georgian Wines
With its unique semi-sweet profile and deep connection to Georgia’s millennia-old winemaking legacy, Kindzmarauli offers a memorable experience for wine enthusiasts. Silk Road, a veteran-owned, Florida-based wine importer, has curated a selection of Georgian wines, showcasing a range of styles, including this 2021 Kindzmarauli ($17.99).