Red Dry Traditional Qvevri Wine
SKU: 806721 Vazisubani Estate – Saperavi Qvevri
Type: Red Dry Clay Pot “Qvevri” Wine
Country of Origin: Georgia
Supplier: Vazisubani Estate
Description: Saperavi grape originated in Kakheti region of Eastern Georgia and now is spread throughout its entire territory. Georgia is known as one of the oldest wine-making regions of the world, Saperavi grape variety is one of the oldest cultivars from the region, and has consistently been the most important in Georgia’s commercial wine-making industry. Despite modern technological advancements, Qvevri egg-shaped pots – known as amphora in other wine-making regions – range in size from 200 to 10,000 liters, and are painstakingly hand-crafted. Before use, Qvevri are carefully cleaned and coated with beeswax before juice is added, and then completely sealed to further prevent contamination and oxidation. The natural yeasts of the grapes allow fermentation without additives, and the natural tannin prevent spoilage without artificial preservatives. The vessels’ conical shape allows yeast and sediment to settle to the bottom freely while the wine is allowed to circulate within the wider center. When buried underground, Qvevri maintain the temperature of fermenting wine like modern temperature-controlled tanks do. the Qvevri is a reminder that wine-making in Georgia is not a borrowed tradition.
Grape Variety: Deep in fruit character, yet brisk with acidity, this gutsy grape presents a unique alternative to everyday reds. The leading red variety in Georgia, Saperavi (sah-per-ah-vee) is indigenous to the country. Translated literally as “the place of color”, Saperavi reflects a deep, inky and often fully opaque color. It is one of the few teinturier—red skin and red flesh—grape varieties in the world. This varietal has aromas and flavors of dark berries, licorice, grilled meat, tobacco, chocolate and spices.
Vintage: 2017
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Taste: This wine, made in the Traditional Georgian way in subterranean terracotta jars – Qvevri, exhibits pronounced aromas of ripe Cherry and Elder fruit. Soft, almost mature tannins are still to reach the final perfection. Palate is long and memorable. Saperavi is considered the latest hit amongst the World’s leading red grape varieties. Its wines can age for up to 40 years, while developing new unique characteristics.
Excellent with red meat and game. Mature cheeses are an elegant choice.
Best to enjoy at 14 – 15°C.
