Napareuli
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Napareuli is a distinguished wine produced in the Napareuli micro-zone, located on the left bank of the Alazani River in the Kakheti region of Georgia. The micro-zone includes the villages of Napareuli, Jugaani, and Artana. This area is known for producing both red and white wines.
History
The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for Napareuli was officially registered on August 30, 2005. The winemaking tradition in Napareuli has deep roots, with the region being recognized for its high-quality wine production for centuries. Historical records indicate that viticulture has been practiced in this area since ancient times, contributing to the rich cultural and winemaking heritage of the region.
Viticulture
Vineyards in the Napareuli micro-zone are situated at elevations between 350 and 500 meters above sea level. The soils in this region are primarily alluvial and deluvial, providing excellent conditions for viticulture. The primary grape varieties used for Napareuli wine include Saperavi for red wines and Rkatsiteli for white wines. The vineyards must adhere to specific regulations regarding grape maturity, vineyard cultivation, and winemaking processes to ensure the high quality of the wine. The sugar content at harvest must be at least 19% for red wines and 18% for white wines, and the yield must not exceed 10 tons per hectare.
Tasting Notes
Napareuli wines exhibit a full, harmonious taste with rich varietal aromas characteristic of the geographic area. Red Napareuli wines, made from Saperavi grapes, have a dark pomegranate color and feature flavors of dark berries, plums, and spices. White Napareuli wines, made from Rkatsiteli grapes, are characterized by their fresh, floral, and fruity notes, with a well-balanced acidity and a pleasant finish.
Interesting Facts
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The name "Napareuli" is derived from "napari," meaning a place for grazing sheep. Historically, it was a significant route for shepherds.