Marani Akhasheni 2020

Enjoy now, or cellar for a few years. No need to decant before serving. Marani are based at the Telavi Wine Cellar in the historic wine-making region of Kakheti and have been providing high-quality Georgian wines to the rest of the world for over a century. The company mixes innovation with a deep respect for history, often employing traditional Kakheti methods in the process of creating their delectable wines. The Alazani River Valley makes for picturesque surroundings, but also provides an enormous breadth and variety of grapes. Various micro-zones dot the landscape, each with a particular speciality. On the north-facing bank of the Alazani, Saperavi is grown on alluvial soil for the sole purpose of creating delicious, deep crimson Akhasheni. Exploding with a rich bouquet of blackberry, blueberry jam, dark cherries, and licorice, this semi-sweet red is extremely enjoyable to drink. Fruits are plucked by hand at the height of their ripeness, before being fermented in stainless steel tanks. Dominant fruity flavours of cassis, cherry, and plum make for a rich, satisfying mouthfeel. The finish is long and velvety smooth, with a sweet, well-balanced aftertaste. Can be enjoyed alone easily, or as a digestif. Pairs well with desserts, such as chocolate cakes and fruit tarts.

Price: £12.64 from 8wines UK