Ateni
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Ateni (Atenuri) is a distinguished wine produced in the Ateni micro-zone, located in the central part of the Inner Kartli viticulture zone in Georgia. This area lies on the right bank of the River Mtkvari (Kura), at the foothills of the Trialeti Range's northern slopes, specifically in the Tana Gorge. Ateni wines are known for their high quality and distinct characteristics, including dry white, sparkling, and slightly sparkling variations.
History
The history of winemaking in Ateni dates back to ancient times, with references to its superior wine quality found in historical texts. For instance, the renowned French orientalist Marie Brosset praised Ateni wine, comparing it to the finest nectars. The PDO for Ateni was officially registered on December 10, 2007. The region's winemaking practices have been preserved through centuries, with local families maintaining traditional methods. Ateni was historically known for its "Samepo Zvari" (Royal Vineyard) since the 11th century, which produced wines esteemed by royalty.
Viticulture
Vineyards in the Ateni micro-zone are situated at elevations between 580 and 750 meters above sea level. The soils in this region include brown and alluvial types, with a heavy loam and slightly clayey composition, contributing to the unique terroir. The designated grape varieties for Ateni wines are Chinuri, Goruli Mtsvane, and Aligoté. The grapes must have a minimum sugar content of 18% at harvest, and all winemaking processes, including grape processing, winemaking, and bottling, must occur within the micro-zone. The vineyards follow strict cultivation practices to ensure high-quality grape production.
Tasting Notes
Ateni wines are known for their delightful and refined flavors. The dry white wines feature a light straw to straw color and exude harmonized, pleasant, and complex aromas. These wines possess a complex, mineral character with subtle hints of salty seawater, adding a unique umami quality. This is complemented by prominent meadow flower notes and developing fruit undertones as they age. The sparkling and slightly sparkling Ateni wines showcase a light straw hue, delivering a delicate and developed aroma with notes of brioche, cream, and lime. Their taste is fresh and oily, full, and well-balanced, embodying elegance and the unique qualities imparted by the terroir of the Ateni micro-zone.
Interesting Facts
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Ateni holds the distinction of being the only sparkling wine PDO in Georgia
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Vineyards in Ateni are among the few in Georgia that are often terraced to maximize sun exposure and effectively manage the hilly terrain.
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Chateau Ateni Atenuri2023
- Regular price
- €15.41
- Sale price
- €15.41
- Regular price
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- Unit price
- per
Winery Chateau AteniVintages2023 / qnt.2000Wine type
White | Alc. 12.0% | Vol. 750ml
Terroir Kartli – Ateni PDO – AteniGrape Chinuri 70% · Goruli Mtsvane 30%
In Stock 2000 -
Chateau Ateni Atenuri Brut2021
- Regular price
- €19.22
- Sale price
- €19.22
- Regular price
-
- Unit price
- per
Winery Chateau AteniVintages2021 / qnt.1000Wine type
Sparkling
White | Alc. 12.0% | Vol. 750ml
Terroir Kartli – Ateni PDO – AteniGrape Chinuri 70% · Goruli Mtsvane 30%In Stock 1000
White | Alc. 12.0% | Vol. 750ml
