Grape(s): Alexandrouli, Mujuretuli
Location: Khvanchkara, Racha region, Georgia
Tasting Notes: Deep garnet. Explosive nose of blackberry jam, sun-warmed cherry and violet, with a cracked-pepper and mountain-herb streak. On the palate it is gently sweet, but cut by fresh acidity and soft tannin, so it finishes clean rather than sticky.
Notes: Khvanchkara is one of Georgia's most historic red appellations, the only one built on the local Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli varieties. Fermentation is stopped while some natural sugar remains, which is where the semi-sweet balance comes from.
Food Pairing: Excellent with spicy grilled meats, walnut sauces, roast pork with fruit, blue cheese and dark chocolate.
Winery Story: Baku Wine works the vineyards of the Racha highlands in northwest Georgia, a region defined by cold mountain nights and long ripening. Khvanchkara has been made there for centuries and remains the region's signature wine.
