Welcome to the world of Georgian wines! As a leading importer of wine from the Republic of Georgia, we are excited to share with you some interesting facts about the wines from the area. Georgian wines are unique and have a rich history that dates back over 8,000 years. Here are three interesting facts that you may not have known about Georgian wines:
Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine – Archaeological evidence indicates that wine has been produced in Georgia since 6,000 BCE (3,000 years before the Egyptians invented written language), and it is considered to be where grapes were first domesticated. This makes Georgia one of the oldest wine producing regions in the world.
Georgian wines have a unique taste and texture – Ancient Georgians used a unique method of winemaking that involved burying the grapes in large clay vessels called qvevri. After covering them with soil, the juice of the grape is left to ferment alongside the skin, seeds, and stems. This traditional wine making method is still used today in some Georgian wineries.
Georgia is home to over 500 different types of native grapes, which have grown in the region for thousands of years. Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white) are the two most prevalent varieties grown today.
The use of native grapes with ancestral methods makes Georgian wines known for their rich, full-bodied flavors and unique aromas.
Georgian wines are an important part of Georgian culture – Wine is deeply ingrained in the country’s traditions and is a central component of many celebrations and rituals. There is even a monument in the capital city of Tbilisi to the Patron Saint of Wine. Saint Nino is said to have brought Christianity to the kingdom in the 4th Century when she traveled the country carrying a cross made of grape branches, tied together with braids from her own hair.
The Georgian tradition of supra (feasting) is not complete without wine. During a supra, a toastmaster known as a tamada leads the group in a series of toasts, each one accompanied by a sip of wine. The tamada‘s role is to keep the conversation flowing and ensure that everyone has a good time.
In conclusion, Georgian wines are unique and have a rich history that spans thousands of years. If you have the opportunity to try a Georgian wine, we highly recommend it. The taste and aromas are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced, and it will give you a taste of the rich culture and traditions of Georgia.