Have you tried Saperavi, a wonderful Georgian wine? If not, you’re in for a big treat. We tried one from Winiveria, and it was great.
About Saperavi
The name Saperavi means to paint or dye. This is a great name for this grape, because it is a teinturier grape, a rare red wine grape with dark skins and flesh. Regular red wine grapes have dark skins, but clear flesh.
According to WineEnthusiast, “Saperavi ranks high in every wine characteristic: deep color, bold flavor, crisp acidity, firm tannins and known age-worthiness. It is also highly versatile, used in rosé, dry, semi-sweet, sweet and fortified wines. It performs well when vinified and aged in traditional Georgian clay qvevri, does not mind stainless steel and is agreeable to barrel conditioning from woods of all origins and sizes. While frequently made as a varietal wine, Saperavi also blends well. It can be made into an easy-drinking wine or a bottling to age for decades.”
It is a hearty grape that grows well in both cold and heat. It has good aging potential, and many can improve for up to 15 years and longer.
What Is This Grape Similar To?
Saperavi can be compared to Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as Tempranillo and Mourvèdre.
It has deep, dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, often accompanied by earthy, spicy notes.
Food Pairings
Its high tannins and robust flavors make it a good match for Georgia’s flavorful and profound feasts, known as supras. Wine Divaa also recommends these food pairings:
- Meat: stews galore, roasted/grilled meats
- Chicken: tomato-heavy dishes
- Fish: oily and meaty options cooked in high heat like tuna, salmon, swordfish, etc.
- Vegetables: think of protein with a meaty’ texture, like tofu, beans, seitan, etc., grilled or charred for some roasted notes.
Winiveria Saperavi
Winiveria uses traditional Georgian Qvevri (subterranean clay vessel) for one month of fermentation. After that, they age the wine in stainless steel for a full year.
I was lucky enough to find this wonderful wine at my favorite local wine store Cherries & Figs. If you’re in the Portland area, please check them out.
