Barbale Rkatsiteli Khikhvi 2022

Drink it now or cellar for up to 5 years. No need to decant it. Located in the central-eastern Georgian region of Kartli, near the historic village of Bolnisi and the Mashavera River, the Barbale winery has been producing excellent quality organic and natural wines since 2016. The name of the company refers to Saint Barbara, a Greek martyr and symbol of fertility. The company, led by winemaker Berdia Berishvili, grows local grape varieties (some of them quite rare), using traditional winemaking methods, to give the world a taste of Georgia's winemaking heritage through its creations. Rkatsiteli and Khikhvi are two indigenous Georgian vines of ancient tradition. The first, in particular, is considered one of the oldest vines in the world and is the most widespread in the country. The grapes, coming from the Kvareli microzone, in the Kakheti region, are fermented on the skins in amphora with wild yeasts. After fermentation and blending, the finished wine matures for 10 months in terracotta amphorae locally called Qvevri. The wine reveals a clear and brilliant amber color. Its aromatic profile is broad and complex with floral notes and citrus peel, honey, and figs, followed by hints of ripe peach. On the palate, it is balanced, warm, and round with soft tannins and hints of cardamom. The finish is long and harmonious with a pleasant freshness. Excellent with mature cheeses and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Price: £19.54 from 8wines UK