Okami
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Wine produced in the Okami micro-zone, located in the central part of the Inner Kartli wine-growing region, on both sides of the Mtkvari River. The micro-zone encompasses several villages including Kodi's Qvavro, Kvemo Chala, Lamiskana, Samtavisi, Okami, Aghaiani, Akhalkalaki, Teliani, Kvemo Gomi, Metekhi, Khovle, Zemo Khandaki, Akhaltsikhe, Doesi, Kaspi, Tsinarekhi, and Kavtiskhevi.
History
The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for Okami was officially registered on December 12, 2022. The winemaking tradition in Okami has ancient roots, with local viticulture being recognized for its quality over the centuries. The area has been historically significant for its strategic location and agricultural productivity, particularly in viticulture.
Viticulture
Vineyards in the Okami micro-zone are situated at elevations between 500 and 800 meters above sea level. The soils are primarily meadow brown, carbonate, and alluvial, which are suitable for viticulture. The primary grape varieties used for Okami wines are Chinuri and/or Goruli Mtsvane for White Okami and Shavkapito for Red Okami. The wines must be produced from grapes grown in the micro-zone, adhering to strict regulations governing grape maturity, vineyard cultivation, and winemaking processes.
Tasting Notes
White Okami wines are characterized by a light straw to straw color and offer harmonious, pleasant, and lively aromas with moderate acidity. Young wines exhibit light citrus and yellow fruit aromas with tones of field flowers, while aging brings out a pronounced bouquet with hints of sweet spices and ripe fruit. Red Okami wines display a ruby red color, featuring full, pleasant, and lively aromas with gentle acidity. They exhibit delicate red berry aromas, and as they age, develop additional aromas of spices, enhancing their complexity and depth.
Interesting Facts
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The name "Okami" is explained in Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani’s "Dictionary of Georgian" as "defender," likely derived from the defensive role of the Napuradevi Fortress in the area.