Gaioz Sopromadze - Dzelshavi 2019 (10.5% ABV) 750ml

Wowza! this ancient wine from Georgia always gets my attention.

Gaioz Sopromadze wine cellar is a small family winery located in the small town of Baghdati in the Imereti viticulture region. Built in 1914 by Gaioz’s grandfather, the winery produces natural wine with organic processes and local grape varieties. The vineyards once below sea level contain a unique calcareous terroir and oceanic fossils in the soil to render an unparalleled distinctive viticulture. Dzelshavi varietal comes from a mountainous region in Imereti. Only one qvevri is made annually. Believed to be one of Georgia’s most ancient varieties, Dzelshavi grows mainly in the regions of Racha and Imereti. Wines made from this grape can range from soft and elegant to lively and precise. 

lts' alive! Loaded with oceanic terroir - light bodied red slightly chilled at cellar temperature has kaleidoscope of minerals, powerful nose, seahorse fossils (from shellfish deposits in the soil), tart cranberries, pomegranate seeds, almost like a mezcal strawberry margarita.

region: Imereti, Georgia ( country)

varietal: 100% Dzelshavi 

style: chilled red

farming & cellar: Practicing Organic (wine made from grapes grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers and herbicides in the vineyard)

a rare thin skin, mountainous varietal vinified in buried clay amphorae (qvevri)

pair with oyster mignonette, Marseille Bouillabaisse, Grilled Quail with lingonberries, or Fish Tacos.