Orgo, Qvevri Tsolikouri, Racha-Lechkhumi, Georgia, 2016

This wine is sourced from Tsolikouri grapes (13%) grown in the Western Georgian region of Racha-Lechkhumi, on limestone soils at around 550m. The variety is late-ripening - this was harvested at the end of October - yet it retains its acidity very well. It’s deep gold rather than full amber in colour, with less mushroomy warmth than for the Rkatsiteli, and more apple, grape and leaf aromas. On the palate it is bright, elegant and darting, acid-structured rather than tannin-structured. The rich acids hint at apple, lemon, pear, quince, even pomegranate. A genuine contrast in style, clearly illustrating regional and varietal differences.