Saperavi qvevri 2019 (Chelti)

Drink now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant before serving. When Giorgi Mirianashvili founded Chelti Winery in 2001 he was building on a legacy that had begun over a century ago when his ancestors built their first cellar here on this land. Today Giorgi’s family has over 80 hectares which includes rolling vineyards at the foot of the Caucasus mountains, a modern winery, and historic cellars set 7 metres underground which naturally remain cool year round. Georgia is probably best known for its iconic qvevri wines which are made in unique large clay amphora vessels usually set into the floor of the winery. This ancient method of winemaking continues today at wineries like Chelti and this Saperavi makes a great introduction to this impressive type of wine. The grapes are fermented in the qvevri and the young wine is then left to mature in the vessel for over a year before bottling. As soon as you pour out a glass you’ll notice the deep red hue which is so typical for the Saperavi grape along with intense notes of crushed dark cherries, blackcurrant, spice and earthy notes from the ageing process. The depth and boldness of this wine make it a great match for hearty meat stews and barbecued dishes.