Georgian Wine Regions
Georgian Wine Regions are the living tapestry of over 8,000 years of continuous winemaking and the birthplace of more than 525 indigenous grape species. From the terraced slopes of Kakheti to the misty shores of Adjara, each of these regions showcases distinct soils, microclimates, and centuries-old qvevri techniques that UNESCO protects as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Imagine inhaling the aromas of golden Rkatsiteli fermented in buried clay vessels or savoring the deep, age-worthy rubies of Saperavi nurtured by humus-carbonate soils.
In this definitive guide to Georgian Wine Regions, you’ll explore all seven viticultural zones—Kakheti, Kartli, Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi & Kvemo Svaneti, Samegrelo, Guria, and Adjara—with precise maps, signature grape profiles, production figures, and soil breakdowns. You’ll discover insider tasting notes, harvest-festival highlights, and practical U.S. import tips, all grounded in local Georgian-language research and the expertise of leading ampelographers. Whether you’re planning a pilgrimage to historic monasteries or sourcing rare Khvanchkara bottles stateside, this journey through Georgian Wine Regions will orient your palate—and your passion—toward the cradle of wine.
Overview of Georgian Wine Country
From the sun-drenched slopes of the Alazani Valley to the humid Black Sea coast, Georgia’s wine country encompasses roughly 525,000 acres (212,500 ha) of vineyards, yielding about 550 million gallons (2.08 billion L) annually. Elevations span from sea level in Adjara up to 2,000 ft in Kvemo Svaneti, nurturing over 525 indigenous grape species, though each region relies on a handful of flagship varietals.
| Region | Distance from Tbilisi (mi) | Vineyard Area (acres) | Most Used Varietals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kakheti | 60 | 360,000 | Saperavi; Rkatsiteli |
| Kartli | 30 | 45,000 | Chinuri; Goruli Mstvane |
| Imereti | 120 | 40,000 | Tsolikouri; Krakhuna |
| Racha–Lechkhumi & Kvemo Svaneti | 130 | 12,000 | Aleksandrouli; Mujuretuli |
| Adjara | 250 | 25,000 | Chkhaveri; Brola |
| Samegrelo | 220 | 30,000 | Ojaleshi |
| Guria | 200 | 13,000 | Chkhaveri (rosé) |
Quick Facts:
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Total vineyard area: ~525,000 acres (212,500 ha)
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Annual output: ~550 million gal (2.08 billion L)
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Elevation range: Sea level (Adjara) to 2,000 ft (Kvemo Svaneti)
Data sources: National Wine Agency of Georgia; Sakpatenti “2024 Viticultural Zoning Report”.
Kakheti: Heartland of Saperavi & Rkatsiteli
Kakheti sprawls across roughly 360,000 acres (145,700 ha) in eastern Georgia, anchored by the Alazani and Iori River valleys. It’s the powerhouse behind ~75% of Georgia’s bottled exports, producing some 320 million gallons annually.
- Soils: Humus-carbonate, black and alluvial soils at 400–700 m elevation.
- Climate: Continental—warm summers (70–90°F) and mild winters, shielded by the Caucasus rain shadow.
- Production: Accounts for ~80% of Georgia’s wine output; ~94 million 750 ml bottles exported in 2019.
- Flagship Wineries: Pheasant’s Tears (Sighnaghi), Alaverdi Monastery cellars, Twins Old Cellar.
Imereti & Racha-Lechkhumi: Hidden Qvevri Gems
Imereti, nestled 120 miles west of Tbilisi, features rolling hills and a Black Sea-influenced maritime climate. Key whites—Tsolikouri (წოლიკაური), Tsitska (წიწკა), and Krakhuna (ყარახუნა)—deliver mineral-driven wines in both oak and qvevri formats.
Racha-Lechkhumi & Kvemo Svaneti, about 130 miles northwest, is famed for semi-sweet reds from Aleksandrouli (ალექსანდროული) and Mujuretuli (მუჯურეტული), notably Khvanchkara, plus rare Usakhelouri in Kvemo Svaneti. Small-scale producers here still bury clay vessels, preserving millennia-old techniques.
Western Regions: Adjara, Samegrelo, Guria
Adjara
- Location & Climate
- Sea level–1,800 ft; summers ~78 °F; ~45 in annual rainfall.
- Soils
- Sandy loam over limestone for bright minerality.
- Key Varietals
- Chkhaveri (ჩხავერი), Brola (ბროლა), experimental Saperavi rosés.
- Highlight
- Château Mère’s coastal Chkhaveri—notes of jasmine, sea salt, and green tea; perfect with seafood or sushi.
Samegrelo
- Location & Climate
- 5–30 mi inland; humid subtropical; summers ~82 °F; mild winters.
- Soils
- Rich alluvial clays with sandy terraces to retain moisture.
- Key Varietal
- Ojaleshi (ოჯალეში)—peppery tannins, tart cherry, earthy spice.
- Highlight
- Barrel Room Mestia’s Ojaleshi aged in small oak vats—ripe red fruits and structured tannins tailored for New World palates.
Guria
- Location & Climate
- Coastal plains to foothills; 40–50 in rainfall/year.
- Soils
- Deep loamy alluvium—ideal for rosé production.
- Key Varietal
- Chkhaveri rosé—salmon hue with wild strawberry, rose petal, saline minerality.
- Highlight
- Guria Qvevri Project revives ancient clay-burial techniques to showcase delicate aromatics and terroir-driven freshness.
Visiting & Tasting Tips
- Harvest Festivals: Experience the rtveli in Kakheti each October—grape picking, supra feasts, and folk music.
- Wine Tours: Base in Sighnaghi or Telavi; must-see stops include Pheasant’s Tears, Alaverdi Monastery, and Twins Old Cellar.
- Best Time to Go: Late September–mid-October offers mild weather, vibrant vineyards, and fewer crowds.
- U.S. Imports: In 2019, ~678,148 Georgian bottles reached the U.S.; hunt for Saperavi and Rkatsiteli at specialty importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Georgian qvevri wine unique?
Clay qvevri allow extended skin contact and gentle micro-oxygenation, resulting in amber and orange wines with nutty, tannic complexity.
Can you visit Georgian vineyards year-round?
Most wineries welcome visitors from April to November; winter tours require advance booking and typically include cozy cellar tastings by the hearth.
Which region is best for red-wine lovers?
Kakheti’s Saperavi reigns supreme, offering deep color, blackberry fruit, and firm tannins ideal for aging.
When is the rtveli (harvest) season?
The rtveli harvest typically runs from October 1 to 15, offering festive grape stomping and supra feasts across Kakheti.
What Did We Learn Today?
- Seven distinct viticultural zones span eastern valleys to Black Sea coasts.
- Kakheti commands ~80% of production with flagship Saperavi and Rkatsiteli.
- Imereti & Racha-Lechkhumi preserve qvevri heritage and semi-sweet specialties.
- Western regions (Adjara, Samegrelo, Guria) showcase coastal varietals and boutique labels.
- Pro tips: Attend rtveli festivals, visit top wineries, and sample Georgian imports in the U.S.