Paper Valley, Georgia

Papari Valley winery is named after the Georgian word for “horse’s mane” in honour of the valley’s wavy hills where their vines grow. In total they have 93 hectares planted with indigenous grape varieties which are farmed organically. Once in the winery the fruit is fermented using wild yeasts and fermented in large clay pots called qvevri which are thought to have been used here in Georgia since ancient times.

This cuvee is crafted from the Rkatsiteli and Chinuri grapes and is particularly unusual due to its naturally-occurring high alcohol level. Scientists believe that this is caused by a rare yeast called Saccharomyces Oviformis found in the Papari Valley which is only found in a handful of wineries in the world. This punchy white wine is fermented and matured in qvevri for 6 months to create a balanced and harmonious wine with plenty of character.

In the glass there’s a striking deep amber hue and hints of green apple, pear and citrus with undertones of cedar, dried herbs, and bay leaf. On the palate you can expect a punchy full body matched by a solid core of orchard fruit flavours and a long, lingering finish with gentle tannins throughout. A great wine to cellar for a few more years or enjoy now alongside roast chicken, grilled fish, or creamy pasta dishes.