Samegrelo

Samegrelo

43.29°N

LATITUDE

43.20°E

LONGITUDE

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about this region

Welcome to Samegrelo, a captivating historic province nestled in the western heart of Georgia, where the enchanting world of wine unfurls its rich tapestry. Bordered by the secessionist region of Apkhazeti to the north-west, the picturesque Svaneti to the north, the bountiful Imereti to the east, the Abkhazia wine region to the west, the charming Guria to the south, and the vast expanse of the Black Sea to the west, Samegrelo is a land steeped in tradition, culture, and vinicultural wonders.

Here in Samegrelo, the soil has witnessed the cultivation of a myriad of grape varieties that have thrived for generations. Among the lush vineyards of this province, you'll find Chkhaveri, Jani, Mtevandidi, Ojaleshi, Chvitiluri, and Chechipeshi grapes, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Samegrelo's viticultural heritage. These grape varieties, with their unique characteristics and flavors, have become an integral part of the region's identity, making Samegrelo a revered destination for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

As you traverse the picturesque landscapes of Samegrelo, you'll be enchanted by the rolling hills adorned with vineyards, where the grapes bask in the region's abundant sunshine and temperate climate. The province's diverse terroir, influenced by its proximity to the Black Sea, bestows upon the wines a distinctive character that is truly a testament to the region's natural beauty and fertile lands.

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Samegrelo, where winemaking has been a cherished tradition for centuries. Here, the age-old techniques of crafting exceptional wines have been passed down through generations, ensuring that each bottle tells a story of the land, its people, and their unwavering dedication to the art of winemaking.

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WINERIES

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Discover Terroir

The Samegrelo wine region, situated in western Georgia, is renowned for its ancient winemaking traditions and distinguished by its captivating landscape, which plays a pivotal role in grape cultivation and the production of outstanding Georgian wines.

Samegrelo's terrain offers a picturesque blend of rolling hills, fertile valleys, and lush plains. The predominant feature is the vibrant green vineyards that sprawl across the undulating slopes, creating a captivating tapestry of grapevines. Local winemakers diligently tend to these vineyards, upholding a craft passed down through generations.

A distinguishing aspect of Samegrelo's landscape is the presence of dense, luxuriant forests that blanket significant portions of the region. These forests are a haven for a diverse array of flora and fauna, contributing to the region's unique biodiversity. The rich woodlands also serve as a wellspring of inspiration for winemakers, emphasizing the seamless relationship between nature and viticulture.

Samegrelo enjoys a temperate and humid climate with consistent rainfall year-round. This climate, coupled with the region's fertile soil, provides an ideal setting for grape cultivation. The proximity to the Black Sea further moderates temperatures, enhancing its suitability for wine production.

In addition to its natural allure, Samegrelo is home to traditional Georgian wineries, some with centuries of history. These wineries, often nestled in picturesque villages, are an integral part of the region's cultural heritage and offer visitors a glimpse into the timeless art of winemaking.

To sum it up, the Samegrelo wine region features a captivating landscape marked by rolling hills, vine-clad slopes, lush forests, and historic wineries. It epitomizes the essence of Georgian winemaking, where nature and tradition converge to produce some of the world's most revered wines.

The climate in the Samegrelo wine region is a tapestry woven with subtropical hues, characterized by a delightful balance of humidity and arid serenity. Nestled in the western embrace of Georgia, this wine region showcases its unique atmospheric temperament as a testament to the art of winemaking.

Embracing its subtropical essence, Samegrelo experiences a general humidity that caresses its vine-clad slopes. As the sun gently warms the land, it bestows upon the region an ideal canvas for grape cultivation. The slopes, gradually ascending towards the foothills of the Upper Caucasus, emerge as fertile canvases for the art of viticulture. Here, where the vineyards rise in harmony with the land, nature and winemakers collaborate to create their liquid masterpieces.

Yet, as the land ascends in altitude, a transformation unfolds. The height above sea level brings with it a subtle change in the climatic symphony. The air becomes crisper, the skies deeper, and the vines seem to reach for the heavens with renewed vigor. This elevation, while preserving the subtropical charm, introduces a whisper of temperance, inviting the grapes to mature with a refined elegance.

In this dynamic landscape, the hand of nature further shapes the wine region's character. Rainfall, once a constant companion, takes on a measured cadence. The vines receive just enough nourishment to thrive, while the excess is gently whisked away, leaving behind a terroir that dances on the palate.

As if choreographed by the elements, the dry eastern winds play their part in the symphony of Samegrelo. Sweeping through the vineyards, they reduce the humidity, bringing with them a sense of balance. These winds, laden with stories from distant lands, impart a distinctive flavor to the grapes, a testament to the wine region's unique character.

In the Samegrelo wine region, climate is not just a backdrop; it is the very conductor of the symphony, guiding the grapes towards their ultimate expression. It weaves a tale of subtropical allure, ascending slopes, measured rainfall, and the gentle embrace of dry eastern winds. Here, amidst this climatic poetry, the grapes flourish, yielding wines that tell a story of nature's artistry and the enduring passion of winemakers.

The Samegrelo wine region in Georgia stands out not only for its illustrious viticultural heritage but also for the array of soil types that impart singular characteristics to its wines. These diverse soil compositions play a pivotal role in shaping the flavor profiles and qualities that define the wines crafted in this region.

  1. Chalky Limestone: Predominantly found in the higher elevations of the Tekhura and Abasha river valleys, chalky limestone soil is a prominent feature of Samegrelo. Recognized for its capacity to retain warmth and facilitate efficient drainage, this soil variety proves advantageous for grapevines. Wines cultivated in chalky limestone soils frequently exhibit distinctive mineral nuances, enhancing the wines' complexity and depth.
  2. Marl: Samegrelo's marl soil, typically nutrient-rich and fertile, maintains an ideal equilibrium of nutrients and moisture for vine growth. This soil type particularly benefits grape varieties with a thirst for moisture, enriching the wines with opulence and fullness. The presence of marl soil adds an extra layer of diversity to the terroir, accommodating a wide range of grape varieties.
  3. Alluvial: The lowland regions of Samegrelo boast soils enriched with alluvial components, often deposited by flowing water. Abundant in nutrients, these soils are a boon for vigorous vine development. They contribute to grapes bursting with flavor, resulting in wines that are fruit-forward and vibrant.
  4. Carbonaceous: In the foothills of the Samegrelo mountains, carbonaceous soil is prevalent. This soil type, layered above a bed of marl and interspersed with gravel, limestone, and marl, excels in water and nutrient retention. Carbonaceous soil nurtures grapevines that produce wines with robust flavors and a sturdy structural backbone.

Each soil type in the Samegrelo wine region imparts its distinct influence on the vines cultivated here, thereby bestowing uniqueness upon the wines produced. The amalgamation of these diverse soil compositions, coupled with the region's climate and traditional winemaking practices, weaves a tapestry of flavors and aromas that are emblematic of Samegrelo's wines.

Discover

The Samegrelo wine region in Georgia, known for its rich viticultural history, is home to a variety of unique grape varieties. Each of these varieties, Chkhaveri, Jani, Mtevandidi, Ojaleshi, Chvitiluri, and Chechipeshi, has distinct agricultural and climatic requirements that contribute to their cultivation and character.

  1. Chkhaveri: Primarily grown in the western part of Georgia, Chkhaveri is a versatile grape that can adapt to various climatic conditions. It thrives in a moderately humid climate, typical of the Samegrelo region. The grape requires well-drained, fertile soils and benefits from the region's balanced mix of sunny and rainy days. The viticultural practices for Chkhaveri often involve careful canopy management to ensure adequate sunlight exposure and air circulation.
  2. Jani: Jani, a relatively lesser-known variety, flourishes in the specific microclimates of Samegrelo. It prefers a climate that provides a mix of mild winters and warm summers, characteristic of this region. The grape demands careful attention to soil conditions, thriving in loamy soils with good drainage. Jani's cultivation also involves strategic pruning to maintain the health and productivity of the vines.
  3. Mtevandidi: This grape variety is accustomed to the warm and humid climate of Samegrelo. Mtevandidi vines require a location with ample sunlight and protection from harsh winds. The soil preference for this variety includes well-aerated, nutrient-rich soils. Agricultural practices for Mtevandidi involve regular monitoring for pests and diseases, given the region's humid conditions.
  4. Ojaleshi: Ojaleshi is one of the most prominent varieties in Samegrelo, known for its adaptability to different terrains and climates within the region. It prospers in both the coastal and mountainous areas of Samegrelo, tolerating variations in temperature and humidity. Ojaleshi vines prefer fertile, well-drained soils and require meticulous canopy management to ensure optimal grape quality.
  5. Chvitiluri: This variety is suited to the unique microclimate of Samegrelo, which includes a balance of rainfall and sunshine. Chvitiluri grapes demand soils with good drainage and moderate fertility. The viticultural practices for Chvitiluri focus on maintaining vine balance and ensuring adequate exposure to sunlight, which is crucial for the healthy growth of the grapes.
  6. Chechipeshi: Chechipeshi is a rare and ancient variety native to Samegrelo. It flourishes in the region's humid subtropical climate, with its warm summers and mild winters. The grape does well in sandy loam soils, which provide good drainage and sufficient nutrients. The cultivation of Chechipeshi involves traditional vine training and pruning techniques specific to the region.

Each of these grape varieties reflects the unique terroir of the Samegrelo region, shaped by its climatic conditions, soil types, and traditional viticultural practices. The diversity of these grapes contributes significantly to the rich and varied winemaking heritage of Georgia.

Nestled within Georgia's Samegrelo wine region lies a captivating tapestry of wines that celebrate the area's rich winemaking heritage. This region, blessed with unique climate and soil conditions, gives birth to wines with fascinating aromatic and flavor profiles. Each variety carries the unmistakable signature of Samegrelo's terroir, a testament to the enduring traditions of winemaking in the area.

  1. Ojaleshi: Among Samegrelo's esteemed offerings, Ojaleshi takes center stage with its exquisite blend of fruity and floral aromas. This wine enchants the senses with vibrant berry notes, often reminiscent of ripe cherries and wild strawberries. Its palate strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity, delivering a refreshing and smooth drinking experience. Subtle herbal undertones and a hint of spiciness add depth and complexity to the wine's character.
  2. Chkhaveri: Another standout from the region, Chkhaveri, is celebrated for its delicate and nuanced aromatic profile. This wine typically boasts enticing floral scents, featuring prominent notes of rose petals and white blossoms. On the palate, Chkhaveri unveils a gentle fusion of stone fruits, such as peaches and apricots, complemented by a subtle citrus zest. Its crisp acidity and mineral notes provide a refreshing finish, making it an ideal companion for Samegrelo's local culinary delights.
  3. Jani: Although less renowned, Jani wine intrigues with its unique aromatic palette, often characterized by earthy and herbal qualities intertwined with subtle forest fruit notes. Jani's flavor profile showcases a distinct earthiness, complemented by the taste of ripe plums and blackberries. With a robust structure and a lingering finish, Jani embodies the rustic charm of Samegrelo's winemaking tradition.
  4. Mtevandidi: Mtevandidi wine, a hidden treasure of Samegrelo, entices wine enthusiasts with bold and expressive aromas. This wine frequently reveals a captivating bouquet of dark fruits, such as blackcurrants and black cherries, infused with hints of spice and tobacco. On the palate, Mtevandidi unveils a rich, full-bodied profile, marked by a concentration of dark berry flavors and a subtle oak influence, culminating in a satisfyingly long finish.
  5. Chvitiluri and Chechipeshi: These lesser-known varieties, Chvitiluri and Chechipeshi, offer their own unique aromatic and flavor profiles. Chvitiluri typically charms with its fresh and lively aromas, often featuring notes of green apple and citrus, while Chechipeshi may present more delicate floral and fruit nuances. Both wines are cherished for their elegance and balanced acidity, making them delightful ambassadors of Samegrelo's diverse winemaking tapestry.

In every glass, these wines from the Samegrelo region invite you on a sensory journey, beckoning you to explore the nuanced flavors and aromas that reflect the essence of Samegrelo's unique terroir. Whether savored locally or appreciated on the international stage, these wines stand as a genuine testament to the rich winemaking heritage of Georgia, carrying forward a centuries-old tradition.

altitude

2-500 m

rain

1200-1500 mm

soil

top varietal

Chkhaveri, Jani, Mtevandidi, Ojaleshi, Chvitiluri, Chechipeshi

History of wine

In the fascinating tapestry of Georgian winemaking history, the Samegrelo region emerges as one of the earliest cradles of this ancient craft. Stretching back centuries, this storied region has played an integral role in shaping the winemaking traditions of Georgia.

The roots of winemaking in Samegrelo can be traced to antiquity, as historical references dating back to the era of Kolkheti attest to the region's viticultural significance. However, it was during the 19th century that Samegrelo's winemaking legacy saw a significant transformation, thanks to the endeavors of the Frenchman Achille Murat.

Achille Murat, a French expatriate, made an indelible mark on Georgian winemaking when he introduced European-style winemaking practices to the region. Under his guidance, vineyards flourished, and innovative techniques were employed, leading to the cultivation of exceptional grape varieties like Ojaleshi and Krakhuna. These varieties not only gained fame within Imereti but also garnered recognition beyond Georgia's borders.

One distinguishing feature that sets Samegrelo apart from the rest of the country is its deep-rooted culture of vine cultivation, a tradition that remained closely tied to the local community, particularly the revered Maghlari. This connection between the people and their vines was a testament to the region's commitment to preserving and nurturing its winemaking heritage.

Today, Samegrelo stands as a living testament to the enduring legacy of Georgian winemaking, with its ancient roots intertwined with the innovations of Achille Murat. This region continues to produce wines that reflect its rich history, offering a taste of Samegrelo's time-honored winemaking tradition to enthusiasts around the world.

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