Grapes
Kakhuri Mtsvane
3 min
Overview
Kakhuri Mtsvane (კახური მწვანე), commonly called Mtsvane, is one of Georgia's most celebrated white grape varieties. Its name means “green from Kakheti,” reflecting both its color and regional origin. While grown throughout Georgia, it reaches its peak in Kakheti's valleys, where it frequently partners with Rkatsiteli to create elegant dry whites.
With vivid aromatics and balanced acidity, Mtsvane bridges traditional qvevri wines and modern fresh styles, adding brightness and fragrance to every bottle.
Characteristics
Mtsvane ripens mid-season, producing small, thin-skinned berries in delicate yellow-green clusters. It is sensitive to rot and humidity, requiring careful canopy management, but rewards attention with intense perfume and freshness.
Its natural sugar and acidity balance allow for crisp dry wines, textured skin-contact wines, or amber styles. Vines thrive on well-drained slopes with moderate fertility.
Wine styles
Mtsvane provides aromatic lift and elegance, especially when blended with Rkatsiteli:
- Dry whites - bright, floral, and expressive; key in PDO wines like Tsinandali and Vazisubani
- Single-varietal wines - increasingly popular, highlighting tropical fruit and lime zest
- Amber / qvevri wines - richer, textured, with herbal and honeyed nuances
- Experimental sparkling - crisp, aromatic bases produced by select Kartli and Kakheti wineries
Taste profile
Mtsvane is prized for its aromatic intensity and lively freshness:
- Aromas: green apple, lime, pear, apricot, white flowers, sometimes mint or basil
- Palate: medium-bodied, bright acidity, gentle minerality, and silky texture
- Qvevri styles reveal layers of dried fruit, tea leaves, honey, and citrus peel
Regions
PDO
PDOs featuring Kakhuri Mtsvane: Tsinandali, Vazisubani, Manavi.
Food pairing
Mtsvane's aromatics pair best with light, fragrant dishes:
- Grilled fish, shrimp, and seafood salads
- Fresh herbs, citrus-based sauces, and soft cheeses
- Poultry or veal in creamy or herbal preparations
- Amber or qvevri styles: roasted vegetables, mushrooms, and walnut-based Georgian dishes
Winemaking notes
Mtsvane's delicacy requires careful handling. Modern whites benefit from cool fermentation to preserve aromas, while qvevri wines gain depth and amber color through skin contact. Blending with Rkatsiteli adds structure, or with Kisi for body, though it also excels as a single-vineyard wine.
Oxidation control is critical to maintain freshness and showcase its signature perfume.
Key producers
Top producers include Telavi Wine Cellar, Tsinandali Estate, Shalauri, and numerous small artisan maranis across Kakheti.
Summary
Kakhuri Mtsvane (კახური მწვანე) is Georgia's aromatic complement to Rkatsiteli-lively, floral, and full of personality. Whether as a crisp modern white or an amber qvevri wine, it captures the brightness and elegance at the heart of Kakhetian winemaking.
