Solomnishvili Saperavi Sio 2018

Drink it now or cellar it for 15 years. It can benefit from decanting.

Giorgi Solomnishvili's family winery is located in Georgia's main wine region, Kakheti, and produces Georgian wines using Qvevri technology. The main grape used is Saperavi, which is then aged in oak barrels. For Giorgi, wine is all a philosophy. He puts his soul in every bottle produced. He knows his land, soil, water level, vines, and climate. When tasting Giorgi Solomnishvili's Saperavi grape wines, you will discover the best classic red wines of Georgia, a unique bouquet of flavors from the Alazani valley and the interesting effects of the Qvevri method and use of oak.

Saperavi Sio comes from 25-year-old vines in the Kakheti wine region. The grapes are harvested manually, then pressed and put into the traditional Qvevri (terracotta amphora) together with skins and stalks; the amphora is then sealed and the must is left to ferment. The wine is later aged in French oak barrels for 12 months.

These treatments allow the wine to develop very rich aromas: the red fruits typical of the Saperavi grape, as well as tones of dried plum, cinnamon, pepper, licorice, and leather. On the palate the wine is full-bodied, with rich tannins and a fresh and powerful aftertaste. This is a really interesting and profound wine that can perfectly accompany grilled red meats or aged cheeses.