Georgia is home to 525 native (autochthonous) grape varieties out of a total of 2,500 varieties that exist in the world. Georgia is a country with a rich winemaking heritage, boasting over five hundred unique grape varieties that grow exclusively within this small nation. This diversity reflects various climatic conditions, soil structures, and ancient winemaking traditions, making Georgian wines special and unique.
Saperavi occupies a special place among Georgian grape varieties as one of the oldest and most revered. This red variety primarily grows in the Kakheti region and is distinguished by its deep dark ruby color. Saperavi wines are known for their rich flavor, with notes of dark berries, spices, and a long, complex finish. Saperavi has a high aging potential, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of full-bodied wines.
Otskhanuri Sapere is an ancient Georgian grape variety mainly cultivated in the Imereti region in western Georgia. The name of the variety translates to “paint from Otskhanuri,” reflecting its ability to produce wines with a very rich, almost inky color. The berries of this grape are small, with thick skins and high tannin content. Wines made from Otskhanuri Sapere feature an intense flavor dominated by notes of black fruits such as blackberry and black currant, along with hints of prunes, spices, and oak. They have a powerful structure, pronounced tannins, and good aging potential. These wines are highly valued for their complexity and depth of flavor, becoming increasingly popular among wine connoisseurs.
Danakharuli is a rare indigenous variety grown in Georgia, primarily in the Kakheti region. Danakharuli grapes are known for their dark, almost black berries, which produce rich red wines with a deep ruby hue. Wines from this variety have an expressive flavor with notes of dark berries, prunes, and spices, along with soft tannins and a long finish. Danakharuli is highly regarded for its ability to develop well with age, becoming more complex and refined.
Alexandrouli is an indigenous Georgian grape variety predominantly grown in the Racha region in northwestern Georgia. This variety is known for its small dark purple berries used to produce exquisite red wines. Alexandrouli wines have a soft and rounded taste, with aromas of ripe red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, as well as light floral and spicy notes. The Alexandrouli variety is often used to create the famous Georgian naturally semi-sweet wine Khvanchkara, characterized by its rich flavor, soft tannins, and pleasant lingering finish.