Saperavi: Diving Deep into Georgia's Signature Grape
Georgia, a country nestled in the Caucasus Mountains with an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, is home to a treasure trove of unique grape varieties. Among them, Saperavi shines as the country's signature red grape, celebrated for its deep color, bold flavors, and captivating history.
A Georgian Icon:
Saperavi, meaning "dye" or "paint" in Georgian, is a teinturier grape, meaning its flesh and juice are also red, resulting in intensely colored wines. This late-ripening variety thrives in the warm, continental climate of eastern Georgia, particularly in the Kakheti region.
Flavors of Saperavi:
Saperavi wines are known for their full body, firm tannins, and a vibrant acidity that balances the richness. Expect a captivating array of flavors:
- Dark Fruit: Blackberry, black cherry, and plum dominate, often accompanied by notes of dried fig and prune.
- Spice: Hints of black pepper, clove, and licorice add complexity and depth.
- Earth: Subtle earthy notes, like tobacco, leather, and sometimes a hint of volcanic ash, contribute to the wine's overall character.
- Oak: While traditionally aged in qvevri (large clay vessels buried underground), some Saperavi wines are aged in oak barrels, adding vanilla, cedar, and spice notes.
Structure and Style:
Saperavi wines are typically robust and structured, with high tannins and a lingering finish. While they can be enjoyed young, they often benefit from aging, developing greater complexity and nuance over time.
Food Pairing:
Saperavi's bold flavors and structure make it a perfect companion for hearty dishes. Consider pairing it with:
- Grilled meats: Steak, lamb chops, and game meats stand up beautifully to the wine's tannins.
- Spicy stews: The wine's complexity and structure complement flavorful stews and braised meats.
- Aged cheeses: Parmigiano-Reggiano, Pecorino, and other aged cheeses provide a delicious counterpoint to the wine's bold flavors.
- Georgian cuisine: Saperavi pairs beautifully with traditional Georgian dishes like khinkali (dumplings), mtsvadi (shish kebab), and khachapuri (cheese bread).
Exploring Saperavi:
Ready to embark on a Saperavi adventure? Here are a few producers to seek out:
- Telavi Wine Cellar: This historic winery in Kakheti produces a range of Saperavi wines, from traditional qvevri-aged expressions to modern, oak-aged styles.
- Kindzmarauli Marani: Located in the Kindzmarauli microzone, this winery crafts semi-sweet Saperavi wines with vibrant fruit flavors and a velvety texture.
- Shalauri Cellars: This family-owned winery in Kakheti produces a range of Saperavi wines, including a unique expression aged in oak barrels made from Georgian oak.
Beyond Georgia:
While Saperavi is most closely associated with Georgia, it's also cultivated in other regions, including Russia, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan. Explore these international expressions to discover how Saperavi adapts to different terroirs.
Uncorking the Georgian Spirit:
Saperavi, with its distinctive character, captivating flavors, and rich history, offers a unique window into the world of Georgian wine. So, raise a glass to this ancient variety and discover the bold and beautiful wines of Saperavi. Gaumarjos! (Cheers!)
