Marani Satrapezo 10 Qvevri Rkatsiteli 2020

Cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. Marani are based in the historic wine-making region of Kakheti and own three vineyards that span both sides of the gorgeous Alazani River. While a small portion of their vineyards are devoted to international varieties of grape, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec, the majority is given over to native Georgian fruits. They remain innovative, but Marani also cultivate a strong connection to Georgia’s ancient wine-making history. Archaeological digs in Georgia have discovered enormous clay amphoras for fermentation, known as Qvevri, dating back 4 thousand years. Marani pay homage to this, receiving numerous awards for their Qvevri wines, including gold at the International Wine & Spirit Competition and the Mundus Vini Summer Tasting in 2021. Complex and balanced, a bouquet of white fruit, subtle spices, and toasted almonds emerge from this attractive golden wine. Rkatsiteli fruit is harvested by hand from Marani’s Kondoli vineyard, before being buried under the earth in Qvevries for 6 months. The resulting silky mouthfeel is unmistakable. Sweet pear and dried apricot spearhead this dry wine, supported by notes of coconut, vanilla, and soft, velvety, tannins. The Rkatsiteli is versatile, delicious alone, and with a variety of foods. Consider some soft spiced lamb, aubergine, or a traditional Georgian bean-based dish.