More and more, people are becoming aware of Central Europe’s growing presence and strength in the world of wine.  Georgia, in particular, is gaining considerable notability.  The wines of this region, however, are not new.  They are old, well-crafted, unique wines, but they have been more or less forgotten due to the area's previous ties with the Soviet Union—until recent years.  Central Europe and the exposure of its wines is bringing excitement, diversity, and intrigue to wine and wine-making.  In an article written for bon appetit magazine, seven wines of Central Europe were highlighted- from the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, Austria, and Georgia.  Among them, Georgia was one of only two countries to have more than one wine gracing the list.  

The first wine on the list, and the first of the Georgian wines featured, was the 2016 Lapati Kidev Erti Chinuri.  One of the few Georgian wines that has found its way to the United States, this one is a sparkling white wine.  Lapati Kidev Erti Chinuri is made from the native Georgian Chinuri grape.  With floral and citrus notes, this wine is an effervescent treat.  The color is a pale yellow and it tastes of orange blossom, cantaloupe, and honey.  A fresh, fizzy wine from Georgia’s own Chinuri grape.  

The second Georgian wine listed was the Archil Guniava Kvaliti Tsolikouri.  This wine is an “orange,” skin-contact wine made in clay.  These clay vessels named Qveri have been utilized in Georgia’s wine-making culture for over 8,000 years.  Essentially, Georgia is responsible for orange wine.  This Tsolikouri is a rich, white wine in a subtle saffron shade.  Smelling of sunflowers and tasting of pears, almonds, and redwood, it’s a blend of floral, fruity, and nutty.  With a smooth, balanced, and dry texture, this wine is nothing shy of extraordinary.   

Georgia and its remarkable wines are finally in the know.  From the history of the country to the indigenous grapes that create its distinctive wines, Georgia is finally gaining some well-deserved attention and has much greatness ahead.  

By Shirin Mahdavi