Mukuzani wine: an overview of taste and producers
Georgian wines are good by definition, and when it comes to one of the oldest drinks, it should have a truly luxurious bouquet. Mukuzani dry vintage wine belongs to such products.
The production of this noble nectar began at the end of the XIX century - in 1888. Since then, the drink has gained wide popularity outside the country and has acquired the title of "business card of Georgian winemaking".
Features of production
Mukuzani is made only in one region - on the outskirts of the village of the same name, located in the east of Georgia - in Kakheti.
The wine belongs to the category of controlled origin and cannot be produced in other territories.
Saperavi grapes with dark blue fruits are used as raw materials for the unique drink.
It is also used as the basis for the creation of other famous wines of the region, such as Kindzmarauli и Pirosmani.
The highlight of the classic Mukuzani is its long aging in oak. The average period of its maturation in barrels is 3 years, while other drinks from Saperavi stored in oak containers for no more than 2 years.
The result is an elegant, aged product with 10-13% alcohol and a rich flavor - one of the best in its category.
Production process
Manual harvesting and sorting of raw materials that ensure the preservation of berries (grapes are harvested when they reach maximum maturity and sugar content).
Separation of the ridges and crushing of the bunches together with the seeds and skin.
Primary fermentation of the wort in stainless steel vats or ceramic vessels submerged in the ground (kvevri) at a constant temperature for several months.
Long-term aging in oak barrels.
Drink overview and recommendations for consumption
Noble Mukuzani is characterized by an intense pomegranate color with a transition to black.
The consistency of the drink is thick, dense, viscous. The taste is tart and velvety.
Due to its heavy, rough texture, the wine has received the status of "male", although in small doses it has long been given to children to treat anemia and weakness.
Not everyone will be able to appreciate the drink: it is intended for lovers of aged products who will not be scared off by assertiveness and strength.
The bouquet of Mukuzani is complex and multifaceted
It contains berry tones, a soft oak flavor, hints of chocolate and herbs.
You can catch subtle spicy notes and light bitterness.
Mukuzani is considered to be wayward and requires more cooling than other red wines.
Serve it at 13-18 °C. The best accompaniment to this special drink is meat, including roasted and barbecued meat, salads, spicy dishes, and fatty cheeses.
Producers of Mukuzani
Dugladze
The largest company that owns large-scale grape plantations supplies significant volumes of traditional Mukuzani for export.
Taste of the drink: harmonious, with a high degree of extractivity, predominantly prune and cherry flavors.
Besini
An equally well-known producer, considered one of the best in the category of vintage winemaking.
Main notes of pomegranate-red Mukuzani: dark berries, herbs and spices.
The taste is clean, light, rounded.
Shumi
The company focuses on classic technologies.
Raw materials are collected on their own plantations located at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level.
Mukuzani turns out to be tart, velvety, with a clear dominance of hints of wild berries, cherry pits and dark currants.
Teliani Valley
The vineyards of the famous producer are located on the banks of the Alazani River, which gives the drink softness and harmony.
The bouquet clearly distinguishes tones of dark berries (blackberries, cherries, currants) and delicate sweetness of plums.
Marniscari
One of the oldest producers of the noble drink pays special attention to the restoration of traditions and adherence to the original recipe: the wine matures in clay quenchers and is stored in rock cellars.
The result is a tart drink with a silky texture and distinct flavor. Main notes: cherry, prune, chocolate, mountain herbs and spices.
Badagoni
A young Georgian-Italian company that combines ancient Kakhetian technologies and modern developments.
The drink is characterized by a ruby-purple hue and a raspberry-strawberry aroma with a light cherry trail.
Mildiani
The manufacturer produces gift wine in unusual ceramic containers.
The taste is dominated by notes of red fruits and delicate woody accents.
Update: 17.12.2018
Category: Wine and Vermouth