Overview
Imereti lies in the Rioni River valley of western Georgia, where humid subtropical conditions and proximity to the Black Sea create a wetter, milder wine-growing environment than the east. The region is mountainous, with vineyards from about 50 to 500 meters on clay, marl, alluvial, and limestone-rich slopes. Local winemakers often use churi, the Imeretian name for qvevri, with shorter skin contact than in Kakheti, producing softer amber and crisp white styles.
The region is best known for its white trio: Tsolikouri, Tsitska, and Krakhuna, which form the basis of the Sviri PDO. These wines are fresh, floral, and mineral-driven, often made into sparkling or blended whites that show lively acidity. Increasing plantings of red varieties such as Otskhanuri Sapere are adding new dimensions to Imereti's portfolio.
Key Varietals
- TsolikouriA yellow-fruited white grape that gives medium-bodied, aromatic wines and blends beautifully with Tsitska.
- TsitskaA high-acid, late-ripening white variety widely used for sparkling wines and fresh blends.
- KrakhunaA white grape with stone-fruit and tropical flavors, prized for textured, mineral wines.
- Otskhanuri SapereAn ancient western red producing dark, brooding wines with intense fruit and firm structure.