Tbilvino Qvevris Kisi

The Allure

Hypnotic, structurally complex, and steeped in 8,000 years of liquid history. While mainstream drinkers default to highly polished, industrial white wines, the adventurous vanguard seeks out the raw, orange hued alchemy of Georgia. Made from the rare, indigenous Kisi grape, this striking bottle is fermented in traditional clay vessels called qvevri buried deep beneath the earth. Masterminded by the pioneering Margvelashvili brothers, who resurrected this historic estate from its late Soviet slumber, it is an intellectual, textured orange masterpiece that completely shifts the paradigm of what "white" wine can be.

Why It’s Exceptional

The Taste: A captivating, deep amber orange pour reflecting beautiful golden hues in the glass. The nose is incredibly fragrant and exotic, leaping from the glass with robust, expressive aromas of ripe quince, yellow peach, and dried apricot, balanced by elegant herbal and subtle nutty notes. On the palate, it behaves with the structural power of a light red; a full bodied frame of ripe yellow fruits is beautifully carried by velvety, well balanced tannins and a complex, highly savory finish.

The Pedigree: 100% Kisi sourced from the high altitude, stony soils of the premium Shashiani vineyard (430 meters above sea level) in Kakheti. Hand harvested in the cool early mornings of late September, the grapes, skin, and pips are sealed inside subterranean clay qvevris. Fermenting naturally at a constant, earth-cooled temperature, the wine spends approximately four months circulating in these conical vessels before being racked off and bottled.

The Ritual: A dramatic, highly conversation starting bottle designed for gastronomy. To fully release its intense stone fruit perfume and soften its grippy tannins, do not serve it ice cold; enjoy it slightly cool (around 12–14°C) in a wide bowled glass. Thanks to its remarkable tannic structure and full-bodied presence, it pairs magnificently with rich, smoky meats, spiced Middle Eastern mezze, robust vegetable tagines, or matured hard cheeses.

The Details

The Maker: George & Giga Margvelashvili / JSC Tbilvino

The Origin: Kakheti, Georgia

The Grape: 100% Kisi

The Strength: 12.5% ABV

The Exclusivity: Authentic Subterranean Qvevri Fermentation, Indigenous Rare Variety, Certified Vegan/Vegetarian