Vazisubani (wine)

Vazisubani is a distinguished Georgian wine originating from the Vazisubani estate, located in the eastern part of Georgia, within the Kakheti region, renowned for its rich history in viticulture and winemaking. This wine is a testament to the ancient Georgian tradition of winemaking, which dates back over 8,000 years, making Georgia one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Vazisubani wine is produced using indigenous grape varieties, primarily the Saperavi grape, known for its deep color and strong flavor profile.

History

The history of Vazisubani wine is deeply intertwined with the history of Georgian winemaking, which is considered an integral part of the country's cultural heritage and national identity. The Vazisubani estate, where this wine is produced, has a long-standing tradition of viticulture, with its vineyards benefiting from the fertile soils and favorable climate of the Kakheti region. The estate has been revitalized in recent years, with investments in modern winemaking technologies while preserving traditional methods, such as the use of qvevris, large earthenware vessels buried underground used for the fermentation, storage, and aging of wine.

Production

Vazisubani wine is produced following both traditional and modern techniques. The use of qvevris is a hallmark of traditional Georgian winemaking, allowing the wine to develop a unique character and complexity. This method involves fermenting the grape juice with the skins, seeds, and sometimes stems, resulting in a wine with distinctive tannins and a deep amber color for white wines or a rich red for red wines. Modern winemaking techniques are also employed to ensure consistency and quality, including controlled fermentation processes and aging in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels.

Varieties

While Vazisubani is primarily known for wines made from the Saperavi grape, the estate also cultivates other indigenous Georgian grape varieties, such as Rkatsiteli and Kakhuri Mtsvane, producing a range of wines that include red, white, and amber wines. Each variety showcases the unique terroir of the Vazisubani estate, with distinct aromas, flavors, and textures.

Tasting Notes

Vazisubani wines are celebrated for their complexity and depth. Saperavi-based wines are noted for their robust body, high tannins, and flavors of dark fruits, such as blackberry and cherry, often with hints of spice and oak. The white and amber wines, typically made from Rkatsiteli or Kakhuri Mtsvane grapes, offer a different palette of flavors, including floral and fruity notes, with a crisp acidity and a textured mouthfeel that comes from the extended skin contact during fermentation in qvevris.

Cultural Significance

Wine plays a significant role in Georgian culture, symbolizing hospitality, friendship, and the rich history of the region. Vazisubani wine, with its deep roots in Georgian winemaking traditions, is a proud representation of this cultural heritage. The estate and its wines are not only a reflection of Georgia's past but also a symbol of its present and future in the global wine industry.

See Also

• Georgian wine
• Saperavi
• Rkatsiteli
• Kakheti
• Qvevri