Georgian Wine: Tradition & Modernity In Tsiskvili Restaurants
Georgia is known as the birthplace of wine. Archaeological data confirms that winemaking in the region began approximately 8,000 years ago, giving the country a uniquely important place in the history of viticulture.
The culture of Georgian wine has greatly developed over the millennia, and today it’s a significant part of Georgian identity, hospitality, and tradition. Throughout this long history, Georgian winemakers developed and honed their signature unique methods of wine production and worked to preserve indigenous grape varieties, which today make Georgian wine stand out in the competitive global market. Many of these wines that have become synonymous with Georgian winemaking can be found on the "Tsiskvili Group" restaurants’ wine cards.
What Makes Georgian Wine Unique: The Qvevri Method And Local Grape Varieties
The uniqueness of Georgian wine is primarily based on two characteristic features: the Qvevri winemaking method and the diversity of local grape varieties.
The Qvevri winemaking method is inscribed on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This method involves fermenting wine in large clay vessels buried in the ground. During the process, the grape juice, skins, stalks, and pips are deposited into Qvevri together to ferment naturally. The process gives the wine a diverse flavor profile, unique aromas, and a distinct tannic structure.
Over 500 indigenous grape varieties have been recorded in Georgia, only about 40 of which are currently used for commercial wine production. The most common varieties are Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, and Mtsvane. Saperavi produces tannic, dark red wine; Rkatsiteli is used to make both amber and classic white wines; while Mtsvane, another white variety, is known for its high acidity and fruity tones.
This diversity allows wine lovers to discover unique tastes and aromas often different from those the more famous and common European wines have become known for.
Tsiskvili Wine Selection: A Blend Of Tradition And Quality
"Tsiskvili Group" restaurants are known not only for the authentic Georgian dishes they serve but also for their rich and diverse wine selection. The wine card brings together the best wines from various regions of Georgia, allowing guests to explore the country's rich traditions.
Our wine selection includes both Qvevri wines produced via traditional methods and modern wines made using more modern, so-called European technology. This variety is to allow guests to choose wines based on their preferences and positive experiences.
The wine menu has products from some of Georgia's leading producers. You’ll find selections from the largest wineries known worldwide, including Tbilvino, Teliani Valley, Shumi, Khareba, etc. On the other hand, the "Tsiskvili Group" restaurants closely collaborate with small, family-owned wineries as well, to ensure the selection is diverse and also offers positions that are unique and not easily accessible to satisfy the true connoisseurs.
Among red wines, Saperavi holds a special place. Classic Saperavi is characterized by a dark red color, rich tannins, and fruity aromas. Qvevri Saperavi, on the other hand, has an even more intense flavor and complex aromatic profile. Additionally, our wine menu offers other classic red wines like Mukuzani, Kindzmarauli, Khvanchkara, and Usakhelauri.
From white wines, "Tsiskvili Group" offers guests some of the best Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, Tsolikouri, and Kakhetian Mtsvane wines on the market. Particularly noteworthy are the Qvevri white wines, instantly distinguishable by their unique, intense character.
The wine menu also includes Georgian rosé and sparkling wines. Rosé wines are usually made with Saperavi or Tavkveri grapes.
The wine menu is diverse and offers wines made both via traditional and modern methods. The selection covers wines from various regions, grape varieties, and styles, allowing guests to explore different aspects of Georgian winemaking in one place.
Georgian Wine On The Table: A Gastronomic Experience
A traditional Georgian feast (supra) isn’t just about savoring delicious dishes, it’s an important opportunity to socialize both with peers and strangers - and wine takes center stage. Georgian cuisine is diverse with light vegan-friendly food intermingling with heavy and hearty meat-based dishes. And each dish requires a different type of wine to be paired with.
Meat-based dishes hold a significant place in Georgian cuisine, and there’s no one type of wine to pair them with - depending on the preparation, various dishes are paired with various types of wine:
- Grilled Meat And Roasted Dishes: For rich dishes, tannin-rich red wines such as Saperavi or Mukuzani are ideal. Their tannins help neutralize the fat and enrich the flavor experience.
- Chakapuli And Boiled Meat: These more delicate dishes pair better with lighter red wines like Tavkveri or Otskhanuri Sapere, which do not overpower the comparatively mild flavor of the dish, but rather create an interesting combination.
Georgian grill is also generous with fish-based dishes:
- Trout And Salmon: For grilled or fried fish most Georgian sommeliers recommend dry white wines. Mtsvane, with its acidity and freshness, pairs perfectly with seafood.
Vegetable dishes and salads, such as pkhali and eggplant with walnuts, go well with light white wines:
- Rkatsiteli or Kakhetian Mtsvane, with their light and bright flavors, complement the vegetables without overshadowing the fresh aromas.
Georgian cheeses, such as Sulguni and Guda, are known for their rich and bold flavors:
- Cheese Platters are best paired with Qvevri wines. Amber wines, such as Qvevri Rkatsiteli, with their complex flavor and strong tannins, create a delightful contrast when paired with rich cheese.
It is important to note that wine pairing ultimately comes down to personal taste. The diversity of Georgian wines allows everyone to find their perfect food pairing - even if it doesn’t agree with the sommeliers’ recommendations.
The Georgian Wine Industry: Tradition Meets Modernity
Today, the Georgian wine industry uses both traditional and so-called European methods. Qvevri wines, made using centuries-old techniques, coexist with wines crafted with modern technologies.
"Tsiskvili Group" establishments offer not only the chance to taste wine but also the opportunity to learn about Georgia's cultural heritage. Each restaurant is a place where tradition meets innovation, and where guests can explore the diversity of Georgian traditions, including Georgian wine, all in one space.
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