The wine regions of Georgia

LOCATION:

The region of Racha-Lechkhumi also officially includes Kvemo (lower) Svaneti. This north-western region is the most sparsely populated in Georgia, situated in the midst of the awe-inspiring Caucasus. This region borders Russian territory to the north and the Georgian regions of Samegrelo and Imereti to the west and south. It lies in the soaring mountains, high meadows and green valleys of the Greater Caucasus, its elevation ranging between 400-5000m asl.

Sub-zones:
Racha / Lechkhumi

CLIMATE:

Winters in Racha-Lechkhumi are typically cold and long with permanent ice and snow in the high mountains. The average temperature in January around the settlements of Oni and Ambrolauri drop to between -2°C and -1°C while the average temperature in July typically reaches between 19 °C and 21°C. Tvishi micro-zone climate provides high sugar content and acidity in Imeretian grape variety Tsolikouri, and exactly this micro-zone Tsolikouri is made naturally semi-sweet white wine Tvishi

SOIL TYPE:

The main types of soil in Racha-Lechkhumi are carbonaceous humus, clay soils, lime soils, clay mixed with flint and sandy clay.

VITICULTURE & Winemaking

This most beautiful region of Georgia is also distinguished by its unique wines. Compared to Kakheti, vineyards are grown here on quite a small territory (approximately 1600 ha), however Racha-Lechkhumi differs from all other regions with its high quality grapes and extremely deep, interesting wines. Racha – Lechkhumi is distinguished other regions by scarcity of vineyards and rare grape varieties. The vineyards here are grown mostly on the slopes of River Rioni gorge. The lower Racha is renowned for Khvanchkara micro-zone. Main micro-zones of Lechkhumi district are: Tsageri, Orbeli, Alpana- Tvishi, Zubi-Okureshi. Among the most notable wines from Racha – Lechkhumi are Khvanchkara and Usakhelouri.