Wine – Kakheti is the cradle of wine. The winemaking tradition here dates back to 6000 BC. The traditional method of making wine is in clay pots called qvevri. The art of making qvevri is passed down through generations and is a UNESCO heritage. Today Kakheti wine-makers use both the traditional and European methods of winemaking and have a fascinating variety that is getting noticed in the international wine market. Georgian orange wines have been recommended by the Washington Post and many wines have won international competitions.
Today, more than 70% of Georgian wine is produced in Kakheti, making it the nation’s leading winemaking region. Approximately 80 different grape varieties are found in Kakheti, the most well-known ones being Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Mtsvane Kakhuri, Khihvi, and Kisi.
The main red variety is Saperavi – a grape variety grown in different regions, and in some of them, like Napareuli, Mukuzani, and Kindzmarauli the name is protected according to the area in which the wine is made (i.e. a wine can be called Napareuli only if it was made in Napareuli).
The main white varieties are Rkatsiteli, which, like Saperavi is grown in some areas which protect the name, like Tsinandali, and other grape varieties such as Mtsvane, Kisi, and Tsitska.
People and hospitality – Kakhetians are very hospitable people. Any host dingy, without any rush, will make a delicious table (supra) with the best wine. You will not find a family in Kakheti that does not have at least 100 liters of wine to meet a guest. This is not surprising. Kakheti is the cradle of wine!
There are plenty of reasons why travel to Kakheti, So It’s always better to check on your own than to listen to or read narratives.