Vardzia Terraces - Khikhvi 2020

Origin: In 2015, through the joint efforts of businessmen Mamuka Khazaradze and Badri Japaridze, and Meskhetian grape collector Giorgi Natenadze, the ancient stone-walled terraces of 12th-century Queen Tamar were resurrected in the village of Khizabavra, Aspindza Municipality, in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region of southern Georgia. Twelve hectares of historical terraces were restored and 27 rare endemic varieties of Meskhetian vine planted — varieties unseen in production for four centuries.

Grape Variety: 100% Khikhvi — a rare and highly prized ancient Georgian white grape, historically revered for producing wines of exceptional richness and complexity. Grown here on volcanic soils at high altitude in Samtskhe-Javakheti, this mountain-grown Khikhvi expresses a wild, mineral energy distinct from any other expression of the variety in Georgia.

Taste Profile: Amber in colour, warm and inviting. On the nose, tropical fruit and bright citrus aromas. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with velvety tannins — generous and enveloping, with a long, memorable finish shaped by the ancient terroir of the Vardzia highlands.

Craftsmanship: Fermented and aged in traditional Qvevri clay vessels buried underground, using extended skin contact — a method recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Made with minimal intervention, allowing the rare volcanic high-altitude terroir to speak with full authenticity. White wines from Vardzia offer complexity coupled with vibrant energy and poise; amber wines are invitingly smooth, ideal for extended aging. Gvinico

Serving Suggestions: Serve cool rather than cold at 12–14°C. Pairs beautifully with soft and aged cheeses, roasted poultry, spiced dishes, walnut-based Georgian foods, and light charcuterie. Also wonderful on its own as a contemplative sip.