Georgian wine PDO
Tsarapi
3 min
Overview
Tsarapi is a PDO in Kakheti focused on dry white wines blending Rkatsiteli (რქაწითელი) and Kakhuri Mtsvane (კახური მწვანე). The wines exemplify the region's balance of aromatic lift and structural freshness.
The PDO emphasizes traditional qvevri and modern winemaking, producing wines of elegance, crispness, and aromatic clarity.
Geography & climate
Vineyards are located at 350-600 meters above sea level on loamy, limestone-rich soils with good drainage and sun exposure.
The climate is moderately continental with warm days, cool nights, and long ripening seasons to preserve acidity and aromatics.
Authorized grape varieties
- რქაწითელი - 60-70%
- კახური მწვანე - 30-40%
The blend provides aromatic intensity with balanced structure and freshness.
Wine styles & characteristics
- Color: pale straw to light gold
- Aroma: white flowers, citrus, green apple, subtle minerality
- Taste: medium-bodied, crisp, fresh, aromatic
- Alcohol: 11.5-13%
- Aging: stainless steel or qvevri
Tsarapi wines are elegant, food-friendly, and expressive.
Taste profile
- Aromas: citrus blossom, pear, white flowers, herbs
- Palate: clean, lively, textured
- Finish: fresh, long, harmonious
Qvevri styles gain subtle amber tones and textural complexity.
Production rules
According to Georgia's National Wine Agency:
- Grapes must come exclusively from the Tsarapi microzone
- Maximum yield: 10 tons/ha
- Only dry white wines permitted
- Alcohol: minimum 11%
- Minimum maturation: 9 months
Food pairing
Pairs with:
- Seafood, poultry, soft cheeses
- Vegetable and herb-based dishes
- Light stews or rice plates
- Salads
Serve at 10-12 °C.
Summary
Tsarapi PDO (წარაპი) produces aromatic Kakhetian whites, combining Rkatsiteli and Kakhuri Mtsvane into fresh, elegant, and food-friendly wines.
