# Created on 05/06/2023 2:52:42 PM
Saperavi is a red wine grape variety that is a native of Georgia in the former Soviet Union.
It was the most popular grape variety planted in many of the wine producing republics in the former Soviet Union.
The characteristic of the grapes of this exciting variety is the dark pink flesh and very dark skins, hence wines made from this variety are deeply coloured. In fact the name of the variety means 'dyer' in the Georgian language.
Another notable characteristic of wines made from this variety is the high acid levels which makes it suitable for blending.
Saperavi is also used to make semi-sweet wiines and port-style fortified wines.
As you might expect, the variety is also capable of surviving extremely cold winters, hence it has attracted the attention of winegrowers in high altitude locations and inland regions.
There are reports of the wine having great aging potential.
Only a few Australian wineries are now using the variety. It has been around for a decade or so and there are still only thirty or so producers. While Saperavi has its enthusiasts the rather slow uptake shows a lack of interest in the variety by growers and probably consumers as well.
Wines made from Saperavi can be paired with a variety of foods.
The strong flavour and firm texture suggests that it would be suitable with game dishes or hearty winter fare.
The classic Georgian meat dish mtsvadi would make an ideal accompaniment to a robust flavourful Saperavi wine.
Med Red offer. Includes two bottles of each of six wines, different producers, different regions, different alternative varieties and blends. Plus a bonus bottle. All at an affordable price.
Sign up to Darby's Wine Newsletter to receive all the latest news, updates to this site and special offers plus invites to exclusive events.
Cargo Road Wines in the Orange NSW region is a Site Sponsor of Vinodiversity
Hahndorf Hill Winery in the Adelaide Hills is a Site Sponsor of Vinodiversity
Frankly This Wine is made by Bob
Order this book about Rare Aussie wines
This book describes the most important wines globally
Detail of the new map of France. Italy and Spain also available
You can use this space to promote your winery or wine based business.
See this page for details
Contact Darby for details.
Tweets by @vinodiversity