Ahasheni wine: history, overview of types, how and what to drink + interesting facts

Akhasheni - Georgian red semi-sweet wine produced in the village of the same name in the Gurjaani district. The vineyards, predominantly of the Saperavi variety, are located on the mountain slopes of Ksvi, at an altitude of 500 to 800 meters above sea level. It rains a lot there, so there is practically no need to water the vines.

History of the variety and wine

There is a legend that during the reign of the Georgian king David IV the Builder, a church named after the Great Martyr George was built in. One day was hot, and the workers decided to relax and drink wine. Suddenly, the glass of one of them fell out of his hands, and the alcohol spilled.

The next morning, a grape vine was spotted breaking through at this spot. By order of the king, a vineyard was organized, and the variety was named Saperavi.

The commercial production of the drink began in the early 20th century, in a small village of Kakheti.

Due to the high sugar content of the fruit (22%), no artificial sweeteners are used in the wine making process.

Types of Akhasheni wine

1. Alaverdi, 13%

   Rich and pomegranate. Soft, fruity. Sugary. It smells brightly of fruit. The aftertaste is long. Due to its sweetness, it may not be suitable for desserts.

2. Badagoni, 10%, alavender

   Dark ruby color. The taste is full of fruit, pleasant sweetness, no strong acidity. Tart. Rich grape aroma. Soft aftertaste.

3. Mildiani, 13% alcohol content

   Dark red in color. Fruity, moderately sweet, rich. Cherry and prune notes intertwine in the aroma. The aftertaste is long-lasting.

4. Teliani Valley, 12.5%

   Cherry color. The taste is woven from hints of black currant, blackberry and partially cherry. Sufficiently tart. It is easy to drink. It smells like fruit. Velvety aftertaste.

5. Palavani, 12% alcohol

   Rich ruby color. The taste is harmonious with berry and spicy notes. Inherent sweetness. Aroma of cherries and black currants, complemented by a slight spiciness. Berries are felt in the long aftertaste.

How and with what to drink Ahasheni

It is better to drink wine young. It is aged from one to four years, which in itself does not affect the taste. But they can be spoiled by improper storage. The best place for a drink is the basement.

Cool the wine to 12-14 °C before serving.

Ahasheni goes well with red meat, chocolate desserts, cheese and fruit snacks.

Interesting facts

1. In 2010, the name of Akhasheni was assigned to the village where it is produced at the legislative level.

2. Georgians divide wine into white and black. If you look closely, the red will shimmer with black shades.

3. The only factory in Georgia that has an ISO quality certificate is Badagoni. Alaverdi products have received 32 gold awards and 42 quality labels.

Update: 03.05.2020

Category: Wine and Vermouth