The wines of Georgia with Sarah Abbott MW – Thursday 24th July
Over the last decade or so, the wines of Georgia have enjoyed a dizzying rise to prominence. This cradle of wine has captured the imagination of sommeliers, critics and consumers alike via hugely characterful wines, often made via a unique method.
In July, we’ll be taking a deep dive into this thrilling revival, covering the UNESCO-heritage qvevri winemaking, dramatic mountain terroirs and a Jurassic world of utterly unique varieties (hats off to anyone familiar with the Rkatsiteli or Tsolikouri grape varieties…).
The wines on show – all medal-winners at various competitions – showcase the full breadth of Georgia’s range, from elegant sparkling to richly textural amber wines and bold, structured reds. The majority are aged in the signature qveri.
The country’s traditional method of fermenting grapes in egg-shaped qveri is recognised by UNESCO, as part of the wonderfully named ‘Intangible Heritage of Humanity’ on the body’s World Heritage list. Archaeological evidence of the use of these large earthenware vessels, which are typically buried in the floor of the cellar, or marani – a semi-sacred place to most Georgians and found in almost every house – goes back 8,000 years.
Join renowned Georgian wine specialist Sarah Abbott MW for an exhilarating exploration of one of the world’s oldest and most dynamic wine cultures.
The wines we will be tasting:
2022 Pét-Nàt Rosé, Mtsvane Estate, Kakheti
2022, Manavi Barrel, Giuaani, Kakheti (white)
2020 Tsolikouri, Labara, Imereti (amber)
2022 Khikhvi, 39 Qvevri, Kakheti (amber)
2022 Mtsvane, Kardanakhi 1888, Kakheti (amber)
2021 Ikano Estate Mtsvane, Ikano Estate Friends Cellar, Kakheti (amber)
2022 Rkatsiteli Qvevri, Lento Winery, Kakheti (amber)
2018 Kisi, Mildiani Family Winery, Kakheti (amber)
2022 Saperavi, Qvevri Wine Cellar of Ivane Nareklishvili, Kakheti (red)
2019 Mukuzani, Chelti, Kakheti (red)
1987 Saamo, Kardenakhi 7, Kakheti (sweet fortified)
St James’s Room
18:30 – Welcome reception
19:00 – Masterclass starts
20:30 – Masterclass ends