If you’ve ever wondered what makes Georgian wine so unique, the answer lies deep underground—literally. Welcome to the world of qvevri wine, a tradition dating back over 8,000 years that continues to shape the identity of Georgian viticulture today.
🍇 What Is a Qvevri?
A qvevri (also spelt kvevri) is a large clay vessel used for fermenting, ageing, and storing wine. These amphora-like containers are handmade, coated with beeswax, and buried underground to maintain a stable, cool temperature throughout the winemaking process.
This ancient technique is still in use across Georgia, especially in regions like Kakheti and Imereti. It’s so historically significant that UNESCO recognised traditional Georgian Qvevri winemaking as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
🌱 How Qvevri Wine Is Made
Unlike modern methods that separate grape juice from skins quickly, qvevri winemaking involves fermenting the entire grape—including skins, seeds, and stems—inside the buried clay vessel. This results in a natural maceration process that brings out deep colour, robust tannins, and layered complexity.
Depending on the winemaker and grape variety, the wine may remain in contact with the skins for several months, creating the bold and structured amber wines Georgia is famous for. Red qvevri wines benefit equally from this process, with intense aromas and earthy, spicy notes.
Qvevri wines are typically:
- Unfiltered and unfined
- Made with indigenous grapes
- Low in sulfites or completely additive-free
This makes them an ideal choice for fans of natural wine and those looking for an authentic, low-intervention product that still delivers elegance and drinkability.
🍷 What Does Qvevri Wine Taste Like?
Each qvevri wine has its personality, shaped by the grape, region, and winemaker. But there are some general traits you can expect:
Amber (Skin-Contact White) Qvevri Wines:
- Deep golden or copper colour
- Aromas of dried fruit, wild herbs, nuts, and spice
- Tannic and structured, often compared to red wine in body
- Perfect with roast vegetables, aged cheeses, and Eastern European cuisine
Red Qvevri Wines:
- Juicy and earthy with balanced acidity
- Flavours of black plum, pomegranate, cherry, and subtle smokiness
- Often medium-bodied with fine tannins
- Great with grilled meat, mushrooms, and spicy dishes
🌍 Where to Buy Qvevri Wine in Europe
If you’re living in Czechia, Germany, or Poland and want to explore authentic Georgian qvevri wines, you don’t need to travel to the Caucasus. At georgianwine.online, we bring carefully selected natural wines from independent Georgian wineries straight to your door—quickly, sustainably, and with guaranteed EU delivery.
Recommended Qvevri Wines to Try:
- Chito’s Gvino, Rkatsiteli-Kisi Qvevri 2023
Rich amber wine with aromas of apricot, white tea, and wild herbs. Elegant and food-friendly. - Chito’s Gvino, Saperavi Qvevri 2023
A dry red with notes of blackberry and cherry. Fine tannins, long finish—great for wine lovers. - Orkoli, Krakhuna Qvevri 2022
Amber wine from Imereti with tropical notes and gentle tannins. A softer take on traditional qvevri style.
Each bottle tells a story, linking ancient tradition with modern craftsmanship.
🛒 Final Thoughts
Qvevri wine is more than just a style—it’s a cultural heritage, a way of life, and a gateway to a more mindful and authentic way of enjoying wine. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just starting to explore natural wines, Georgian qvevri wines offer something unforgettable.
Ready to explore?
Buy Georgian Qvevri Wine Online and taste the legacy of 8,000 years in every glass.
