Lechkhumi
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Lechkhumi Municipalities (Districts)
Lechkhumi is a picturesque region in northwestern Georgia, is a hidden gem renowned for its ancient winemaking traditions and exceptional terroir. This enchanting region, nestled in the foothills of the majestic Caucasus Mountains, is a land of rolling hills, lush valleys, and serene riverbanks, offering a breathtaking backdrop for viticulture. The scenic beauty of Lechkhumi is complemented by its unique environment, which is ideally suited for grape cultivation and winemaking.
Terroir Features
Lechkhumi's terroir is characterized by its moderate climate, diverse soils, and varied topography, making it ideal for viticulture. The region enjoys warm summers and cool winters, with a mix of continental and subtropical influences that ensure a long growing season. Its soils, ranging from clay and limestone to alluvial, are well-drained and rich in minerals, contributing to the complexity of the wines.
The rolling hills, steep slopes, and fertile river valleys create numerous microclimates, each enhancing the unique qualities of the region's wines. Abundant water sources from rivers and streams provide reliable irrigation and temperature moderation. This combination of factors results in fresh, aromatic white wines and rich, complex red and sweet wines, exemplifying the exceptional quality and unique characteristics of Lechkhumi's viticultural landscape.
Traditional Winemaking Methods
Lechkhumi's winemaking methods skillfully blend ancient traditions with modern innovations, resulting in exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region. Central to its traditional practices is the use of Qvevri, large clay vessels buried underground, for fermenting and aging wine. This ancient Georgian method enhances the wines' natural flavors and complexity by allowing gentle micro-oxygenation and maintaining stable temperatures. The Qvevri method imparts unique characteristics to the wines, preserving their authenticity and depth.
Complementing these time-honored techniques, Lechkhumi's winemakers also embrace modern practices to improve quality and consistency. Stainless steel fermentation tanks and controlled processes are increasingly used to ensure precision and hygiene, resulting in clean and well-defined wines. This combination of traditional and contemporary methods allows Lechkhumi to produce a diverse range of wines, from fresh, aromatic whites made from Tsolikouri to rich, flavorful reds and sweet wines from Usakhelauri. The integration of these techniques highlights the region's commitment to both preserving its rich heritage and embracing innovation in winemaking.
Districts & Micro-zones (PDOs)
This tiny region boasts two iconic PDOs, Tvishi and Usakhelauri. Tvishi PDO produces high-quality semi-sweet white wines from Tsolikouri grapes, grown in a microclimate influenced by the Rioni River, offering aromatic notes of green apple, pear, and citrus with balanced sweetness and acidity. Usakhelauri PDO, dedicated to the rare Usakhelauri grape, produces deep ruby-red wines with rich flavors of dark berries, plums, and spices, typically in semi-sweet or sweet styles. These PDOs highlight Lechkhumi's unique terroir and indigenous varieties, showcasing the region's winemaking excellence.
Main grape varieties
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Giorbelidze Wine Cellar Tvishi2022
- Regular price
- €11.78
- Sale price
- €11.78
- Regular price
-
- Unit price
- per
Winery Giorbelidze Wine CellarVintages2022 / qnt.900Wine type
Semi Sweet
White | Alc. 12.5% | Vol. 750ml
Terroir Lechkhumi – Tvishi PDO – OkureshiGrape Tsolikouri
In Stock 900 -
Giorbelidze Wine Cellar Usakhelauri2023
- Regular price
- €25.54
- Sale price
- €25.54
- Regular price
-
- Unit price
- per
Winery Giorbelidze Wine CellarVintages2023 / qnt.200Wine type
Semi Sweet
Red | Alc. 12.3% | Vol. 750ml
Terroir Lechkhumi – Okureshis Usakhelouri PDO – OkureshiGrape Usakhelouri
In Stock 200 -
Giorbelidze Wine Cellar Tsolikauri2021
- Regular price
- €8.32
- Sale price
- €8.32
- Regular price
-
- Unit price
- per
Winery Giorbelidze Wine CellarVintages2021 / qnt.1000Wine type
White | Alc. 12.5% | Vol. 750ml
Terroir Lechkhumi – Tsageri – OkureshiGrape Tsolikouri
In Stock 1000
Semi Sweet
White | Alc. 12.5% | Vol. 750ml
Semi Sweet
Red | Alc. 12.3% | Vol. 750ml
