Country of Origin: Georgia
Wine Region: Kakheti, Georgia
Vineyard Area: Tibaani, Kakheti
Producer: Gurashvili's Family Vineyards
Wine Type: Dry Amber Wine
Vintage: 2018
Grape Variety: 100% Kisi
Volume: 750ml
Alcohol: 13% ABV
Winemaking: Traditional Qvevri Method
Fermentation: Skin Contact
Filtration: Unfiltered
Serving Temperature: 10-12°C
About the Wine: Gurashvili Qvevri Kisi 2018 is an expressive Georgian dry amber wine produced from 100% Kisi, an indigenous Georgian grape variety native to Kakheti. Made by Gurashvili's Family Vineyards, this distinctive wine showcases the depth, texture and complexity that traditional Georgian qvevri winemaking can bring to Kisi.
The family winery is based in Tibaani in the Sighnaghi district of Kakheti, one of Georgia's most historic and important wine-growing regions. The Kisi grapes are grown on rolling vineyard slopes at approximately 400-500 metres above sea level.
Traditional Qvevri Winemaking: The grapes are hand-harvested before being crushed and fermented with their skins using native yeasts in traditional Georgian qvevri - large clay vessels buried underground.
Following fermentation, the wine remains in qvevri in contact with the grape skins for approximately 5–7 months. This extended skin contact develops the wine's beautiful amber colour while adding texture, tannin structure and aromatic complexity. The wine is bottled unfiltered with minimal intervention, preserving an authentic expression of the Kisi grape and traditional Georgian winemaking.
Tasting Notes: Bold, complex and beautifully textured, Gurashvili Qvevri Kisi 2018 displays inviting aromas of dried apricot, ripe peach, apple and pear alongside savoury, earthy and spicy notes.
The palate is rounded and velvety with generous texture, refreshing acidity and well-integrated tannins. Extended skin contact gives the wine considerably more structure than a conventional white wine, resulting in a distinctive amber wine with layers of ripe fruit, savoury complexity and spice, followed by a long and characterful finish.
About Kisi: Kisi is an ancient indigenous Georgian white grape variety closely associated with the Kakheti wine region. Once at risk of disappearing, the variety has experienced an impressive revival as Georgian winemakers have returned to native grapes and traditional qvevri winemaking.
Kisi is particularly well suited to extended skin-contact fermentation, producing distinctive amber wines with impressive aromatic intensity, texture and structure.
Food Pairing: The wine's combination of ripe fruit, spice, acidity and gentle tannic structure makes it exceptionally versatile with food. Pair with roast chicken, pork, grilled meats, charcuterie, grilled vegetables, mature cheeses, Georgian cuisine and mildly spiced dishes.
It can also be enjoyed on its own and is an excellent choice for wine lovers wanting to explore authentic Georgian amber and qvevri wines.
Sommelier's Note: A fascinating expression of traditional Georgian winemaking, Gurashvili Qvevri Kisi 2018 combines ripe stone fruit with savoury complexity, spice and distinctive qvevri-derived texture. Structured yet balanced, it is an excellent introduction to premium Georgian amber wine and a rewarding choice for adventurous wine drinkers.
100% Kisi | Traditional Qvevri | Unfiltered | 13% ABV | Product of Georgia
