#22 Saperavi 2018, Solomnishvili, Kakheti

A crowning jewel in Georgia and one of their finest wineries. Located in the Kakheti, Telavi, this wine region is surrounded by the Alazani and Ivri rivers which both have great influence on the region; moderating the temperature and thus resulting in less volatility for more consistent and viable wine production. An interesting growing region to say the least with its diverse climates throughout ranging from maritime to continental. This happens due to dry air emerging from the Caspian Sea juxtaposed against humidity brought in by the Black Sea. Both these influences are tempered by ridges surrounding the area. The Likhi ridge reduces the annual rainfall whereas the Caucasus ridge acts as an impressive barrier for harsh winds that could damage Vines.

A complex and delicate growing environment requires a very experienced and passionate person at the head of operations. Giorgi Solomnishvili is a devoted winemaker who produces spectacular small batch wines – ranging from 20000-25000 bottles per annum. He has remarkable knowledge about the land, climate, water availability and vines within his territory – paying close attention to the nutritional capability of the clay, gravel and limestone-rich soil. The Vineyards here are at an altitude of 250 – 800m above sea level and cover a small 0.2-hectare area with vines planted at a high density, making hand picking is essential. Giorgi prefers this, a hands-on approach means more care and attention can be given to each individual vine. His wine production is based around the Saperavi Grape – a teinturier varietal described as the ‘Malbec of the Caucasus’ – and translating roughly to ‘colour or ‘dye’ in English – illustrating the deep colour of its skin and flesh. It produces wine with natural high acidity, deep colour and firm tannins and is versatile enough to be planted in hot and cool climates enabling a wide range of styles to be produced.

The 800-year-old traditional vinification methods are still preferred using the ‘Qvevri ageing’, which involves pressing grapes and then pouring the juice, stalks, pips and skins into a Qvevri (an egg-shaped earthenware vessel) this is sealed and buried in the ground to ferment for 5-6 months. The juice is then poured into French oak barrels for further ageing, gaining optimum structure and complexity. Giorgi is a thoughtful thinker; his philosophy and dedication are admired globally. He understands his land, it’s terroir and the Saperavi like no other, and the results are truly astonishing. When relishing in Giorgi Solomnishvili's Saperavi wines, you will be drinking the finest red wines typical of Georgia, an exceptional bouquet from the Alazani valley and the unique complexity created from the Qvevri method. Drinking his wines creates contemplation, relaxation and pleasure. An outstanding producer who describes his craft so eloquently “Wine is the way I choose to communicate with the world, it’s the way I express my unconditional love. It’s a silent prayer, an unwritten word. It’s an unspoken communication”.