Papari Valley 3 Qvevri Terraces Saperavi 2023

Drink now or cellar for up to 20 years. No need to decant before serving. Georgian nautral wines are slowly making themselves known on the world stage thanks to their remarkable, unique personalities which come from the country’s ancient winemaking techniques. Papari Valley winery occupies a stunning setting on the slopes of the Gombori range overlooking the Caucasus Mountains and has a total of 93 hectares planted with local grape varieties. This Saperavi is a great introduction to Georgian red wines, spending 10 months fermenting and maturing in large clay pots or qvevri which are buried underground to regulate temperatures. The long skin contact helps to draw out plenty of intense flavours and colour compounds, creating an elegant, balanced wine with its own distinctive Georgian personality. It's particularly unusual due to its naturally-occurring high alcohol level. Scientists believe that this is caused by a rare yeast called Saccharomyces Oviformis found in the Papari Valley which is only found in a handful of wineries in the world. In the glass there’s a deep ruby red hue and seductive notes of sour cherry, cassis, and ripe plum underlaid with forest fruit and bay leaf. The first sip reveals a robust full body, firm yet smooth tannins, and a well-built structure that will help this wine age beautifully. The finish is long and intense with lingering notes of dark fruit and herbs. Try pairing with earthy game dishes like venison or wild boar and wild mushrooms.

Price: £15.17 from 8wines UK