It has been 8,000 years in the making – and it’s ready to surprise your palate.
There’s a quiet revolution fermenting beneath the surface of the wine world. While steel tanks and oak barrels dominate the shelves, a growing number of curious sommeliers, wine buyers, and enthusiasts are discovering something ancient, earthy, and extraordinary: Qvevri wine.
What is a Qvevri?
A qvevri (also spelled “kvevri”) is a large, egg-shaped clay vessel traditionally buried underground. Originating from Georgia, it’s one of the oldest winemaking tools in the world, dating back over 8,000 years.
Unlike modern vessels, the qvevri allows for natural temperature control and slow fermentation with minimal intervention. It creates vibrant, structured, and complex wines.
The method is so unique and historic that UNESCO recognizes it as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Qvevri Winemaking Method
The process begins with crushed grapes — often whole clusters with skins, seeds, and sometimes stems — placed directly into the qvevri.
The vessel is sealed and left to ferment for months, often 6 to 9 months. During this time, the wine interacts deeply with the skins and the porous clay of the qvevri, developing intense aromas, deep tannins, and complex textures.
The result? Amber wines (also called orange wines), particularly from white grape varieties, offer stunning structure and earthy depth.
Why Georgia?
Georgia isn’t just the birthplace of wine – it’s also home to hundreds of indigenous grape varieties that thrive in small micro-zones, cared for by artisan winemakers who treat qvevri not as a trend but as tradition.
At Geowine.online, we work with producers like Chito’s Gvino and Orkoli Winery, who use only estate-grown grapes and follow organic or natural practices, crafting wine with passion and precision.
What Does Qvevri Wine Taste Like?
Depending on the grape and region, qvevri wines can be:
- Amber wines: textured, nutty, floral, with dried fruit and honey notes
- Red wines: bold, earthy, with wild berries and spice
- Always: dry, complex, and layered — not your average supermarket sipper
Some of our most loved qvevri wines include:
- Krakhuna: juicy, citrus-driven with gentle tannins
- Rkatsiteli-Mtsvane: structured and aromatic
- Saperavi: dark, rich, full-bodied reds aged in clay
Why It’s Worth Discovering
Qvevri wine is for those who are curious.
- For sommeliers, it’s a storytelling wine that elevates any list
- For connoisseurs, it’s a new terroir to explore
- For casual wine lovers, it’s a delicious surprise that pairs beautifully with food
Most importantly, it’s real — crafted without shortcuts, commercial yeasts, or excessive manipulation.
Ready to Try One?
Browse our tasting boxes or explore our exclusive qvevri selection from Georgia. Every bottle comes with a story — and it starts 8,000 years ago.
Georgian wine. Ancient roots. Bold taste.
