Georgian Wine — An 8000-Year Tradition

Where It All Began

In 2017, archaeologists at Shulaveri Gora discovered wine residues on ceramic fragments dating back to 6000 BC. This remains the oldest evidence of winemaking in the world—which is why Georgia is officially recognized as the birthplace of wine.

The Qvevri — UNESCO World Heritage

The Qvevri is a large clay vessel buried underground used for the traditional Georgian winemaking method. In 2013, UNESCO added this technology to the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

In a Qvevri, the wine ferments together with the skins, stems, and seeds (chacha). This process is what gives Georgian amber wine (often called "orange wine") its unique character and fame across the globe.

Main Grape Varieties

Reds

• Saperavi — The premier red variety; deep, bold, and high in tannins.
• Aleksandrouli — From Racha, the foundation of the famous Khvanchkara wine.
• Ojaleshi — From Samegrelo, used for semi-sweet reds.

Whites

• Rkatsiteli — One of the world's oldest white grape varieties.
• Mtsvane — A classic Kakhetian white.
• Chinuri — Primarily from Western Georgia.
• Tsitska and Tsolikouri — Signature Imeretian varieties.

Famous Micro-zones

• Khvanchkara (Racha) — Naturally semi-sweet red.
• Kindzmarauli (Kakheti) — Semi-sweet red made from Saperavi.
• Tsinandali (Kakheti) — Refined dry white.
• Mukuzani (Kakheti) — Premium dry red made from Saperavi.
• Tvishi (Lechkhumi) — Aromatic semi-sweet white.

Where to Visit

• Kakheti — Telavi, Sighnaghi, and Kvareli are the heart of the wine region.
• Imereti — Baghdati and Vani for Tsitska and Tsolikouri tastings.
• Racha — Ambrolauri, the ancestral home of Khvanchkara.
• The Wine Museum — Located in the capital, Tbilisi.

👉 If you are interested in a tasting journey, check out our [Kakheti Wine Tour Guide](/blog/kakheti-wine-tour).