Georgian wine PDO

Kisi Magraani

3 min

Overview

Kisi Magraani is a PDO in Kakheti, celebrated for dry white wines made from Kisi (კისი) and Kakhuri Mtsvane (კახური მწვანე). It showcases the region's skill in balancing aromatic lift with mineral-driven structure.

The appellation emphasizes traditional qvevri methods alongside modern winemaking, producing wines with layered texture, bright acidity, and expressive fruit character.

Geography & climate

Vineyards are situated on well-drained alluvial and loamy soils at 350-650 meters above sea level, on gentle slopes and valley terraces.

The climate is moderately continental, with warm days, cool nights, and long ripening periods that enhance aromatic complexity and maintain fresh acidity.

Authorized grape varieties

The blend combines Kisi's aromatic intensity with Kakhuri Mtsvane's freshness and finesse.

Wine styles & characteristics

  • Color: pale gold to straw
  • Aroma: citrus, apricot, floral, and subtle mineral tones
  • Taste: medium-bodied, crisp, fresh, with layered texture
  • Alcohol: 11.5-13%
  • Aging: stainless steel or qvevri for texture

Kisi Magraani wines are vibrant, elegant, and food-friendly.

Taste profile

  • Aromas: citrus blossom, green apple, pear, and white flowers
  • Palate: lively acidity, textured mid-palate, subtle minerality
  • Finish: clean, long, and harmonious

Qvevri-fermented examples gain a textural richness and subtle amber hue.

Production rules

According to Georgia's National Wine Agency:

  • Grapes must come exclusively from the Kisi Magraani microzone
  • Maximum yield: 10 tons/ha
  • Only dry white wines permitted
  • Alcohol: minimum 11%
  • Minimum maturation: 9 months before release

Food pairing

Pairs with:

  • Grilled fish or chicken
  • Georgian salads, pkhali, and light vegetable dishes
  • Soft cheeses and mild starters
  • Seafood stews or citrus-based dishes

Serve at 10-12 °C.

Summary

Kisi Magraani PDO (კისი მაგრანი) exemplifies aromatic Kakhetian whites, highlighting Kisi and Kakhuri Mtsvane in wines of freshness, elegance, and textural complexity.

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Kisi Magraani wines

Georgian wine heritage

8000 years of living winemaking tradition

From qvevri buried beneath the soil of village cellars to the vineyards of Kakheti and Imereti, Georgian wine has always been part of daily life. Tradition here isn't frozen in the past - it's practiced every harvest, through natural fermentation, indigenous grapes, and families who continue to make wine the way they always have. This living culture, recognized by UNESCO, is why Georgia is considered the world's oldest continuously active winemaking country.