Rkatsiteli wine: an overview of the drink, how to drink, producers
Rkatsiteli dry white wine is considered to be one of the best in its category. It is produced from the grape variety of the same name, which is grown mainly in Kakheti.
Round golden yellow fruits are well suited for making young drinks. Strength is about 11%.
Features of Rkatsiteli production
Georgian wines are characterized by high sweetness, rich flavor and persistent aroma, which makes connoisseurs come back to them again and again.
At the same time, Georgian winemakers do not ignore the world's achievements and willingly implement them in production.
The raw materials are harvested when the grapes reach a high degree of maturity and are filled with sweetness.
Famous white wine is made using ancient Kakhetian technology.
It determines the unique flavor characteristics of the drink and includes the following steps:
Ripe fruit is crushed with branches, skin, and seeds.
The crushed mass is placed in special kvevri vessels (ceramic jugs dug into the ground) for 3-4 months.
Underground storage ensures a constant fermentation temperature of 14-15 °C.
After the expiration of the term, the infused liquid is drained and sent for further storage in oak barrels, where the future wine reaches the desired degree of maturity (for Rkatsiteli, this period is approximately 1 year).
Taste, color and aroma of Rkatsiteli
Rkatsiteli has a tart and rich flavor with a slight bitterness at the end.
The color of the wine can shimmer from straw to light golden. If you compare Rkatsiteli, made according to the Kakhetian technology, with wine made according to the European method, the difference in color will be noticeable at first glance.
Aroma - floral and herbal with a light trail of spices and citrus fruits.
Due to the infusion of the skin and seeds, the traditional Georgian drink contains more polyphenols than French or Italian wines, and therefore has greater health benefits.
At the same time, many European producers consider Kakhetian drinks to be too rough and powerful.
How to drink Rkatsiteli
It is recommended to drink wine as an aperitif or as an addition to light snacks, cheeses, fish, game, and white meat dishes.
Rkatsiteli is good to drink chilled, but its taste is best revealed at room temperature.
Wine is great for quenching your thirst on a hot summer day.
Producers of Rkatsiteli
However, the classic drink made from Georgian grapes can only be tasted in its homeland, Kakheti.
Among the worthy producers: "Askaneli Brothers, Badagoni, Okro’s Wines".
Update: 19.09.2018
Category: Wine and Vermouth