Grapes
Khikhvi
3 min
Overview
Khikhvi (ხიხვი) is an ancient Georgian white grape native to Kakheti, long admired for its fragrance, balance, and versatility. Although the origin of its name remains uncertain, Khikhvi has been documented in local vineyards for centuries and is often described as “the noble white of Kakheti.”
Nearly lost during the Soviet consolidation of vineyards, Khikhvi survived in small family plots and has since re-emerged as one of Georgia's most refined and expressive white varieties, capable of producing styles ranging from delicate dry wines to rich amber and naturally sweet expressions.
Characteristics
Khikhvi vines are moderately vigorous, producing small, compact clusters of yellow-green berries. The grape ripens from mid- to late-season and thrives in the Telavi, Gurjaani, and Kvareli districts, where warm days and cool nights allow full flavor development while preserving acidity.
It accumulates sugar easily, resulting in wines with natural generosity and a soft, rounded palate. Khikhvi performs especially well on alluvial and clay-limestone soils and adapts seamlessly to both qvevri and stainless-steel vinification.
Wine styles
Khikhvi wines are among Georgia's most versatile and perfumed - graceful, layered, and naturally harmonious across a wide range of styles:
- Dry whites - elegant and balanced, with floral, mineral, and subtle honeyed tones
- Amber / qvevri wines - full-bodied and textured, with dried fruit, tea leaf, and spice complexity
- Semi-sweet and dessert wines - naturally sweet styles from late-harvest fruit, prized for aromatic purity and depth
- Blends - occasionally paired with Rkatsiteli or Kisi to enhance structure or aromatic lift
Taste profile
Khikhvi wines are admired for their aromatic finesse and natural balance - expressive yet composed, with gentle richness on the palate:
- Aromas: apricot, acacia blossom, quince, citrus peel, honey, dried herbs, and soft spice
- Palate: medium to full body, rounded texture, fine acidity, lingering floral finish
- Amber styles: dried fruit, chamomile, nuts, beeswax, and subtle tannic grip
Regions
PDO
While Khikhvi does not anchor a PDO of its own, it is an approved variety in several Kakhetian appellations, including Kardenakhi, Kotekhi, Napareuli, and Kvareli.
Food pairing
Khikhvi's perfume and soft acidity make it exceptionally food-friendly:
- Seafood with butter or citrus-based sauces
- Roast chicken or turkey with herbs
- Creamy risotto or mild, aromatic curries
- Georgian walnut-based dishes such as satsivi or badrijani
Winemaking notes
Khikhvi excels in both traditional and modern cellars - qvevri wines emphasize structure, spice, and depth, while stainless-steel fermentations highlight jasmine, apricot, and citrus aromas.
Its natural sugar-acid balance allows for elegant dessert wines and contributes to notable aging potential across all styles.
Key producers
Notable producers include Shumi Winery, Teliani Valley, Château Khashmi, Lagvinari, and artisan maranis such as Gotsa and Pheasant's Tears, known for natural and amber interpretations.
Summary
Khikhvi (ხიხვი) represents the graceful side of Kakhetian winemaking - aromatic yet structured, ancient yet freshly relevant. Whether bottled as a crisp dry white, a layered amber qvevri wine, or a luscious dessert style, Khikhvi captures the elegance, balance, and quiet depth driving Georgia's white-wine renaissance.
