Akhmeta

Akhmeta (Akhmetis Mtsvane) is a distinguished wine produced in the Akhmeta micro-zone, located in the western part of Kakheti, on the upper part of the Alazani River. The wines produced here are either white or amber, with the primary grape variety being Kakhuri Mtsvane.

History

The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for Akhmeta was officially registered on May 11, 2020. The winemaking tradition in Akhmeta has ancient roots, always occupying a significant place in the household activities of the local population. The region's wines were notably praised by Vakhushti Bagrationi in his geographical works. Modern Akhmeta wine production was established in 1958 by specialists from "Samtresti" and has since gained numerous international accolades.

Viticulture

Vineyards in the Akhmeta micro-zone are situated at elevations between 400 and 800 meters above sea level. The soils are diverse, including brown alkali-resistant soils, brown soils, meadow brown soils, alluvial carbonated soils, and humus carbonated soils. These soil types are ideal for viticulture, contributing to the unique characteristics of Akhmeta wines. Akhmeta amber wine must be prepared from Kakhuri Mtsvane grapes, with the addition of Kisi and/or Khikhvi grapes (up to 15%) from the same region permitted. The wines must be produced from grapes grown in the micro-zone, with strict regulations governing grape maturity, vineyard cultivation, and winemaking processes.

Tasting Notes

Akhmeta wines present a captivating blend of flavors and aromas. The white wines exhibit a light straw color with delicate green reflections and offer soft aromas featuring notes of fresh stone fruit, hay, and herbal tea. These wines have a fresh, harmonious character with high acidity, making them lively and refreshing. The amber wines, distinguished by their dark amber hue, are full-bodied and energetic, with a velvety texture and moderately sharp notes. They possess a distinctive tannic taste due to maceration on the must, with evolving aromas of hay, herbal tea, eucalyptus, and fresh stone fruit, resulting in a rich, complex bouquet that deepens as the wine matures.

Interesting Facts

Akhmeta is one of the coldest and westernmost wine-growing regions in Kakheti.
Vakhushti Bagrationi, a prominent Georgian prince and scholar, praised the wines of Akhmeta for their exceptional qualities in his notable works.

Akhmeta PDO Official Guidelines and Specifications

History

Viticulture

Tasting Notes

Interesting Facts

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