Georgian Wines
Givino stocks Georgian wines that represent one of the world's oldest continuous winemaking traditions, dating back over 8,000 years. Our Georgian wine selection focuses on expressions made using traditional qvevri fermentation methods alongside modern techniques. These wines from Georgia include both indigenous grape varieties and traditional winemaking approaches that create wines with distinctive character and food-friendly structure. The collection represents different Georgian wine regions and production methods that showcase this country's unique contribution to world winemaking.
Traditional Georgian Winemaking Methods
Georgian winemaking centers around qvevri, large clay vessels buried underground for fermentation and aging. This ancient technique creates Georgian amber wine through extended skin contact with white grapes, resulting in wines with an orange color and complex tannin structure. The qvevri method produces amber wine in Georgia styles that differ significantly from conventional white wine production, offering texture and depth that pair well with diverse cuisines. These traditional methods create the wine of Georgia that maintains characteristics developed over millennia.
Indigenous Georgian Grape Varieties
Georgia cultivates over 500 native grape varieties, with Saperavi dominating red wine production and Rkatsiteli leading white wine expressions. Saperavi produces Georgian red wine with deep color intensity and natural acidity that works well with Georgian cuisine and international food pairings. Rkatsiteli creates both conventional Georgian white wine and amber wine expressions depending on production methods. These indigenous varieties produce Georgia wine styles that cannot be replicated in other wine regions due to their specific genetic characteristics.
- Qvevri fermented wines - Traditional clay vessel production creating distinctive texture
- Saperavi red wines - Indigenous variety producing structured, food-friendly reds
- Rkatsiteli expressions - Versatile white variety for both conventional and amber wines
- Regional diversity - Different Georgian wine regions offering varied terroir expression
Georgian Wine Regional Characteristics
Kakheti region produces most commercial Georgian wines with continental climate conditions that concentrate flavors while maintaining acidity. Kartli region offers different soil compositions that influence wine character, while Imereti focuses on traditional winemaking methods using indigenous varieties. Each region brings distinct characteristics to wines from Georgia, from mineral-driven expressions to fruit-forward styles. These regional differences create diversity within Georgian wine production while maintaining traditional production methods.
Amber Wine Production and Characteristics
Georgian amber wine results from white grape fermentation with extended skin contact in qvevri vessels, typically lasting several months. This process extracts tannins and creates a golden-orange color that gives amber wine its name. The technique produces wines with greater structure and complexity than conventional white wine production, resulting in amber wine Georgia styles that work well with rich foods and possess aging potential. Amber wine represents Georgia's most distinctive contribution to international wine styles.
Food Pairing and Serving
Georgian red wine pairs naturally with grilled meats, stews, and cheese due to its structured tannins and natural acidity. Georgian white wine works well with seafood and lighter dishes, while amber wines complement rich foods, nuts, and hard cheeses. The natural winemaking approaches used in Georgian wine production create wines that enhance food rather than compete with it, making them versatile for various dining occasions.
Modern Georgian Wine Development
Contemporary Georgian winemaking combines traditional techniques with modern quality control and international distribution. Some producers focus on maintaining historical methods exactly, while others adapt traditional techniques for contemporary palates. This approach creates Georgian wine brands that appeal to both traditional wine lovers and those seeking new experiences. The combination of ancient techniques with modern standards produces Georgian wine styles that maintain authenticity while meeting international quality expectations.
Our Georgia wines collection represents this unique winemaking heritage through producers who understand traditional methods while maintaining contemporary quality standards. Whether seeking traditional qvevri-fermented expressions or modern interpretations of indigenous varieties, our selection demonstrates the diversity and character available within wine from Georgia production from this historically significant wine region that continues to develop its international reputation.
