What Makes Georgian Red & White Wines so Special? 

Georgian wine is unique due to the fact that many winemakers still use the same techniques that have been practiced for millennia, including the qvevri method. In this method, crushed grapes — along with their skins, seeds, and occasionally stems — are placed into beeswax-coated qvevris — large clay vessels — and left to ferment naturally, using only the naturally occurring yeast present on the grapes. The qvevris are then buried underground to ensure a stable temperature for several weeks during the fermentation process. Once fermentation is complete, the vessels are sealed, allowing the wine to age undisturbed for several months, developing its distinctive character.

In addition to traditional methods, modern Georgian winemakers also embrace “classic” or European-style techniques. These involve aging wine in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels and using commercial yeasts and sulfites to control the fermentation process. This blend of ancient traditions and modern techniques enables Georgia to produce a diverse range of wines that cater to a variety of tastes.

Is Georgia Known for Red or White Wine?

Both! The country’s red wines are celebrated for their bold, complex flavors, while its white wines are prized for their bright acidity and crisp, clean taste. In addition, Georgia is renowned for its amber wines, sometimes referred to as orange wine. This unique category is made by fermenting white grapes with their skins and seeds, an ancient technique that imparts a complex, earthy flavor. The result is a wine with a distinctive amber hue that blends the characteristics of both white and red wines.

Comparing Red vs. White Georgian Wines

Georgian Red Wine

Georgian red wines are known for their depth, tannic structure, richness, and ability to age well. The country’s most iconic red is Saperavi, a full-bodied wine that rivals more well-known varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Rhône blends. Saperavi, which means “dye” in Georgian, is also one of the rare teinturier grape varieties in the world, where both the skin and flesh are a red, creating a wine with intense color and flavor. Another popular Georgian red is Kindzmarauli. Made from 100% Saperavi grapes, this semi-sweet wine is approachable and fruit-forward, celebrated for its smooth texture and rich, flavorful profile.

Georgian reds often feature intense flavors of dark berries, spice, and chocolate, complemented by velvety tannins and a long finish. These wines pair beautifully with hearty dishes, such as roasted meats and stews, making them the ideal companion for rich holiday meals.

Silk Road’s picks:

• 2016 Saperavi Reserve ($45). This premium dry red wine is aged for eight months in oak barrels, resulting in a robust tannin structure and a smooth, velvety finish. It features a balanced, full-bodied profile with rich flavors of cherry, black pepper, and vanilla. Pair it with barbecue dishes, steaks, or hard cheeses to enhance its bold character.
• 2020 Khvanchkara ($22.99): For those who enjoy a semi-sweet wine, Khvanchkara is an excellent choice. Made from a blend of Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes, this wine delights with aromas of vanilla, cherry, and a touch of raspberry. Its balanced profile makes it a perfect match for spicy dishes, while also complementing fruit and desserts.

Georgian White Wine

Georgian white wines are celebrated for their aromatic complexity, bright acidity, and refreshing texture. The country’s most widely planted white grape, Rkatsiteli (pronounced reh-KATS-sih-tellee), is known for producing crisp, well-balanced wines with distinctive characteristics that are easy to enjoy.

Georgian whites are characterized by vibrant flavors of citrus, green apple, melon, and floral notes, with a clean finish. In terms of food pairings, serve these wines with lighter fare like seafood, salads, and soft cheeses.

Silk Road’s picks:

• 2020 Kisi ($18.99): Georgian white wine is celebrated for its brightness, crispness, and acidity, and this Kisi is a perfect example. This dry white wine features an elegant blend of pineapple, grapefruit, and melon aromas, creating a well-balanced, harmonious bouquet with a crisp, lingering finish. Kisi pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes, especially pasta, seafood, and poultry.
• 2016 Manavi ($14.99): This Manavi, crafted from 100% Mtsvane grapes, is a dry white wine that stands out with vibrant aromas of apricot, citrus, and crisp green apple, followed by a mineral-driven finish. It pairs well with pork dishes and mildly spiced curries.

Explore the World of Georgian Wines

Whether you’re a fan of bold reds or crisp whites, Georgian wines offer something truly special. Silk Road Wines is a veteran-owned importer and distributor of Georgian wine based in Orlando, Florida. Check out our curated selection of traditional Georgian wines and find the perfect bottle to elevate your next meal or celebration or give as a unique gift.