THE CULTURE OF WINE IN GEORGIA  AND ITS PRODUCTION IN QVEVRIS

Georgia is often considered the cradle of viticulture, with a winemaking tradition dating back more than 8,000 years. Viticulture in Georgia is not just an economic activity but also an essential element of the country's culture and national identity. Traditional winemaking practices, particularly the use of qvevris, are at the heart of this rich tradition.

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Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Archaeologists have found evidence of vine cultivation and winemaking dating back to the Stone Age, around 6,000 BCE. Georgia's varied climate and soil provide ideal conditions for viticulture, allowing the cultivation of over 500 indigenous grape varieties.

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Georgian wine is closely tied to religious and social traditions. The "supra," or Georgian feast, is a tradition where wine plays a central role, symbolizing hospitality, conviviality, and spirituality.

Qvevris (or kvevris) are large clay jars used for the fermentation, storage, and aging of wine. This traditional winemaking method is unique to Georgia and dates back thousands of years. The qvevris are buried in the ground, which helps regulate the temperature during the fermentation process.

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1. Harvesting and Destemming: The grapes are harvested by hand and destemmed.

2. Fermentation: The grapes, including skins, seeds, and sometimes stems, are placed in the qvevris to ferment. This process can last several weeks.

3. Maturation: Once fermentation is complete, the qvevris are sealed, and the wine is left to mature for several months, sometimes up to two years.

4. Racking: The wine is racked from the qvevris and bottled for consumption.

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This winemaking method produces wines rich in flavors and aromas, with a complex tannic structure. White wines produced in qvevris are often amber-colored due to prolonged contact with the grape skins, giving them unique characteristics.

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The qvevri winemaking method is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging its historical and cultural importance. Today, many winemakers in Georgia continue to use this traditional method, while incorporating modern techniques to enhance the quality and uniqueness of their wines.

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By preserving and innovating this ancient tradition, Georgia continues to strengthen its reputation on the global wine stage, attracting the attention of wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide.