Georgia and Georgian Wine

Georgia - The Cradle of Wine

Long before France, Italy, or any other land were known for wine, there was Georgia - a small country in the Caucasus, where winemaking began over 8,000 years ago. This isn't just legend; it's been confirmed by archaeologists who discovered the world's oldest traces of winemaking in ancient Georgian clay vessels. In Georgia, wine is more than a drink - it's part of the national identity.

Qvevri Winemaking - A Living Tradition

What sets Georgia apart is its unique winemaking method using qvevri - large, egg-shaped clay vessels buried underground. This technique, passed down through generations, is still in use today and was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The qvevri method allows wine to ferment and age naturally, creating a rich, authentic taste deeply connected to the earth and tradition.

A Land of Grapes - Over 500 Native Varieties

One of the most extraordinary things about Georgia is just how rich and diverse its vineyards are. While most countries rely on a few international grape types, Georgia is home to over 500 indigenous grape varieties - many of which grow nowhere else in the world. This makes it one of the most biodiverse wine regions on the planet.

From deep, dark reds like Saperavi, to crisp and aromatic whites like Rkatsiteli or Mtsvane, Georgian grapes offer a stunning range of aromas, textures, and tastes. Each variety has its own character, history, and regional story - passed down through generations of growers and winemakers.

In Georgia, every valley, every village, and sometimes every family has its own favorite grape. This incredible diversity means Georgian wine can be bold or delicate, earthy or floral, amber-hued or ruby red - all depending on the grape and the region.

This deep connection between land, grape, and tradition is what makes Georgian wine not only ancient and unique, but endlessly surprising.

8000 BC

Origins of Wine

Archaeological evidence in the Kvemo Kartli region (e.g. Shulaveri) confirms the world's oldest winemaking, with Qvevri (clay fermentation vessels) and grape residue found in pottery.

The Oldest Qvevri, Shulaveri, 6000 BC
2000-500 BC

Wine in Culture & Religion

Grape motifs appear in ancient Georgian artifacts and religious practices. Wine becomes integral to rituals, burial customs, and social hierarchy. In this period, Wine becomes central to Georgian supra (feast) culture, with toastmasters (Tamada) leading spiritual toasts.

Tamada Statue from Antient City of Vani, 7th Century BC
4th Century AC

Christianization & Wine

With the adoption of Christianity around 326 CE, wine took on deep spiritual meaning in Georgia as a symbol of the Eucharist. Monasteries began cultivating vineyards and played a crucial role in preserving the ancient Qvevri winemaking tradition.

The Elevation of the Holy Cross, Jvari Monastery, 6th Century AD
5th-15th Centuries AC

Flourishing Wine Traditions

During this era, Georgian winemaking flourished under the care of Christian monasteries. Over 500 indigenous grape varieties were cultivated. Regions like Kakheti, Kartli, and Imereti became central hubs of viticulture, each developing distinct wine styles that are still preserved today.

Grape High Relief, Oshki Cathedral, 10th Century AD
16th-19th Centuries AC

Foreign Influence and Winemaking

Despite numerous invasions by Persians and Ottomans, Georgians preserved their tradition of home winemaking. Later, under the Russian Empire, Georgia emerged as a key wine supplier for the czars, cementing its reputation as a land of rich viticultural heritage.

Khevsur Warriors, Photo, 19th Century
1921-1991

Winemaking in Soviet Era

Between the 1920s and 1980s, during the Soviet era, Georgian winemaking became heavily industrialized, with emphasis shifting from quality to mass production. Traditional methods like Qvevri winemaking were officially discouraged, yet they managed to persist in rural communities.

Georgian Wine Labels During Soviet Era - 1921-1991
1991 to Present

Independence & Renaissance

Since gaining independence in 1991, Georgia has experienced a renaissance in natural winemaking. Following the collapse of the USSR, traditional practices were revived, leading to global recognition of Georgia's organic Qvevri wines. In 2013, UNESCO honored this ancient method as part of the world's Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Qvevri on Cart and Coats of Arm of Georgia and UNIESCO

Contact

Phone: +49 1522 4050925 | +49 172 9267315

Email: info@niniani.com

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