Grapes
Tsitska
3 min
Overview
Tsitska (ციცქა) is one of western Georgia's signature white grapes, native to Imereti and deeply embedded in its viticultural tradition. The name derives from “tsitskili,” meaning “sparkle” or “lightness,” perfectly reflecting the grape's bright, fresh character.
Historically blended with Tsolikouri and Krakhuna, Tsitska now enjoys recognition for its pure, elegant expression and natural affinity for dry, sparkling, and lightly amber wines.
Characteristics
Tsitska ripens late, producing medium-sized, loosely packed clusters of small, thin-skinned berries. The grape thrives in Imereti's humid, hilly terrain, especially on well-drained slopes near the Rioni and Kvirila river valleys.
It retains high natural acidity, moderate sugar, and delicate aromatics, yielding wines that are crisp yet subtly textured. Its resilience to rot makes it reliable in the region's damp climate.
Wine styles
Tsitska wines capture the fresh, approachable side of western Georgia:
- Dry whites - bright, low-alcohol, citrus-driven, and delicately floral
- Blends - integral in Imereti's traditional triad with Tsolikouri and Krakhuna
- Amber / qvevri wines - lightly tannic, herbal, and refreshing
- Sparkling wines - appreciated for fine acidity and light aromatic lift
Taste profile
Tsitska wines are light, crisp, and energetic - the essence of youthful freshness in western Georgia:
- Aromas: green apple, lemon zest, white flower, wild herbs, sometimes melon or lime leaf
- Palate: light-bodied, crisp acidity, mineral-driven, clean finish
- Amber versions: honey, chamomile, dried apple, soft herbal bitterness
Regions
Regions featuring Tsitska: Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi, Black Sea Coastal Zone.
PDO
Sviri PDO - Tsitska appears alongside Krakhuna and Tsolikouri in dry white blends.
Food pairing
Tsitska's bright acidity and light body make it versatile with food:
- Fresh salads and seafood
- Grilled vegetables, light pasta, and herb-based sauces
- Fried river fish or trout
- Mild cheeses, khachapuri, and light vegetarian dishes
Winemaking notes
Traditional Imeretian churi methods may use partial skin contact for subtle amber color and texture.
Modern stainless-steel fermentation preserves citrus precision and freshness, while extended lees aging adds gentle creaminess. Its high acidity supports longevity even in minimalist winemaking.
Key producers
Notable producers include Baia's Wine, Khvedelidze, Imereti Wine Company, and small maranis across Zestaponi and Terjola crafting single-varietal Tsitska wines.
Summary
Tsitska (ციცქა) embodies the lighter, elegant side of Imereti's white wines - brisk, understated, and effortlessly drinkable. Whether bottled young or given subtle qvevri treatment, it remains a pure, authentic expression of western Georgian terroir.