Rkatsiteli – Georgia’s Iconic White Grape Wine

By Author: Tatiana Zakaidze
Total Articles: 36
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It’s easy to get in a rut sometimes where you end up drinking the same wine again and again. Maybe you don’t want to come out of your comfort zone. Perhaps you haven’t been exposed to different wines and got the opportunity to explore new wines from different regions.

How many wines have you tried? Do you have any idea how many varieties there are? Are you a wine lover wanted to explore authentic wines made with traditional methods? You can’t go wrong with Rkatsiteli! Rkatsiteli is an old, overlooked gem. Well, you would want to start your ongoing exploration of Rkatsiteli. We’ve got you covered. Read on to find out more about Rkatsiteli wine…

Everything You Need to Know About Rkatsiteli

Rkatsiteli is a rare variety that originated from Georgia. It is one of the country’s most popular white wine varieties. Rkatsiteli is the most planted variety in Georgia, claiming about 43% of all vineyard plantings. It dates back to the 1st century AD and is native to the region of Kakheti, Eastern Georgia. Rkatsiteli is still grown in Kakheti region, and they’re the largest producer of this variety ...
... wines worldwide.

Rkatsiteli is a white grape and refers to “red stem” that’s inspired by the reddish colour its stalks take on around harvest. Incredibly popular in the country, Rkatsiteli is found in virtually every wine region within Georgia’s border. However, this white variety is grown all over the world, including Australia and America.

How is Rkatsiteli Wine Made?

Rkatsiteli is used to make a traditional Georgian wine. The wines are produced using some of the best old wine-making techniques that dates back to the dawn of winemaking. Grapes are harvested from the plants and pressed. Then every part of the grape, including juice, stalks, skins, and all is poured into an earthenware vessel called Qvevri. Then the jars are sealed, buried under the ground, and left to ferment on their own for several months to bring out the flavour and taste. As a result, the wine has a slightly tannic orange wine.

The process isn’t stopped here. Producers make into every style of wine you can imagine by adding different ingredients to bring different wine flavours, including still, dessert, sparkling, and even brandy.

How Does It Taste, and What Foods Go Well With Rkatsiteli?

It’s naturally very acidic and has quince, spice, and floral aromas to it. With crispy acidity and different flavours, Rkatsiteli goes well with most food. From fish and port to chicken and beef, Rkatsiteli Georgian variety is an undervalued pairing. Although it’s ancient, Rkatsiteli is appealing and liked by many wine lovers all over the world.

For more queries on this Georgian variety and rkatsiteli wine price, please get in touch with our team.