NINE OAKS ESTATE
Eniseli, Kakheti
Khikhvi
Kindzmarauli subzone
Khikhvi
A very rare grape originating out of the far eastern corner of Georgia. This grape is naturally low yielding and gives concentrated flavors. The rich amber color brings with it a density and tannic structure that is captivating. Fruit flavors abound with mandarin orange, ripe peach, and dried apricot. Floral and herbal notes include, jasmine, spearmint, and Rooibos tea. The texture is full and expressive with a minerality that is reminiscent of potters clay and beeswax.
POINTS OF INTEREST
This white grape is treated like a red wine, fermented in Qvevri (large traditional clay pots) for one month with the skins. After fermentation, this natural wine is aged a year in tank to preserve the freshness and develop maturity. Because of lower yields, the Khikhvi grape fell out of fashion when Russia controlled the winemaking production, opting for quantity over quality.
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Rkatsiteli
Kindzmarauli subzone
Rkatsiteli
Rkatsiteli is arguably the most important grape in Georgia. Traditionally these white grapes don't make typical "white" wines. Here white grapes are fermented with the skins like red wine and have an amber color. The Rkatsiteli expresses savory citrus like persimmon and kumquat along with fleshier notes of pear and apricot and a slightly smoky flavor of incense, cedar, and earth. The woody notes come from the skins and tannin with a fine structure.
POINTS OF INTEREST
Georgia is the oldest known wine region in the world with artifacts dating back nearly 6,000 years. Seeds from the Rkatsiteli grape were found in clay vessels dating back to 3,000 BC. This grape has a strong fortitude just like the Georgian people, resistant to the natural elements. The Georgian wine revolution has begun! Nine Oaks is one of these exciting new wineries focused on natural winemaking with traditional styles, investing in the time and research to improve them.
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