Georgian Vine Guide: Vineyards, Grape Varieties and Wine

Georgia is considered the birthplace of wine. As a result of archaeological excavations, the following were discovered: the oldest pressing room (dishes for squeezing grape juice), kvevri (pottery for storing wine), various tools and utensils used for viticulture. On the territory of Kvemo Kartli, as a result of archaeological excavations, grape seeds dating back to the VI-V millennium BC were found.

Grape culture played a major role in Georgia in both pagan and Christian periods. Thus, the spread of Christianity in Georgia is connected with the grape culture: Saint Nino came to Georgia to preach Christianity, holding a cross made of a vine in her hands. Many Georgian temples are decorated with images of the vine. Primitive wineries existed in Georgian churches and monasteries. Some marani (wine cellars) presses of these temples have survived to the present day. The tradition of winemaking in monasteries continues at the present time.

An integral part of the Georgian dwelling was the marani, built of wood, stone or brick. Marani consists of a press and a kvevri. In Eastern Georgia, marani was a closed (often basement) room, and in Western Georgia it was open and with a courtyard. In Marani, all activities related to winemaking and wine storage take place. The table is often set in Marani, therefore, as a rule, there are the necessary attributes of a Georgian feast. The grape harvest in Georgia is called "Rtveli". In Eastern Georgia, the rtveli begins at the end of September and lasts for two weeks. In Western Georgia, rtveli is held a month later.

There are 500 local varieties of vines known in Georgia, of which 1/10 has a production purpose. Widely distributed: Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Tsolikouri, Mtsvane, Tsitska, Ocaleshi, Chkhaveri, Alexandrouli, Aladasturi, Hihvi, Krahuna, etc. Imported varieties are also known (Aligote, Pinot, Chardonnay, Cabernet, etc.), which have taken root well in the local environment.

In Georgia, vine crops are found at an altitude of 900-1000 meters above sea level. Although the best natural (climatic conditions for growing grapes are up to 700 meters above sea level. In relatively elevated places, early grape varieties are common, and in low zones varieties of late period and medium maturity.

The vine grows in all regions of Georgia. However, it is especially common in Kakheti, Imereti, Kartli and Racha-Lechkhumi. Georgian wine is known all over the world. Currently, it is exported to 50 countries.