Georgia
Kakheti
Vazisubani Estate ( Georgië)
Vazisubani can literally be translated as “Place of the Vineyards” (Vazi = vine and Subani = neighbourhood or settlement). This magnificent estate was founded in 1891 by the Georgian nobleman and wine pioneer Sulkan Chavchavadze. It is located in Kakheti, the most important wine region of Georgia. The castle itself is surrounded by a beautiful park, around which the vineyards are spread. During the previous century, the estate fell into decline, and it was only in 2013 that the decision was made to restore it to its former glory. The vineyards were replanted and the estate was completely renovated. Georgia’s 8,000-year-old wine culture (the oldest wine culture in the world) is proudly preserved here and combined with the most modern installations and innovations. The current winemaker, Lado Uzunashvili, is one of Georgia’s most respected winemakers and also gained international inspiration in countries such as France, Australia, and even Japan. Wonderful things are achieved here with grape varieties such as
Georgian Sun (Kakheti)
The Georgian Sun wines are a range of wines produced at the renowned Vazisubani Estate by the equally acclaimed internationally renowned winemaker Lado Uzunashvili. Thanks to years of experience in European countries such as France, he perfectly combines Georgia’s traditional winemaking methods with the classic European style. Both the Qvevri wines and the classic-style wines are true gems and among the very best Georgia has to offer. With Georgian Sun, he presents some of Kakheti’s most popular indigenous grape varieties in a flavorful and playful way. These wines guarantee instant, uncomplicated drinking pleasure and are the perfect introduction to the historic wine country of Georgia, all at a very affordable price. After more than a century of Russian dominance, Georgia has successfully turned its focus back to Western Europe, Japan, and America, quickly gaining the sympathy and attention of wine lovers worldwide. A status that the oldest wine-producing country in the world truly deserves.
Racha-Lechkhumi
Royal Khvanchkara (Racha-Lechkhumi, Georgië)
The vineyards of Royal Khvanchkara are located in the Racha region, on the foothills of the majestic Caucasus Mountains. They are situated at an altitude of 780 to 800 meters along the banks of the Rioni River. Wines are produced here from local grape varieties such as Aleksandrouli and Tsolikouri. The high altitude guarantees wines of elegance and freshness. In addition, the vineyards enjoy more sunshine hours than Kakheti, making the wines not only lighter in style but often slightly sweeter as well. David Iselidze is a young and passionate winemaker who learned his craft here from none other than Lado Uzunashvili. This renowned winemaker belongs to the absolute top of Georgian winemakers and represents the 11th generation of a family of winegrowers and oenologists. His advice and contribution make Royal Khvanchkara an essential reference for this appellation, which is also world-famous for its semi-sweet wines. As early as 1907, a wine from this estate won a major award in Ostend, earning it international recognition and appreciation. Unfortunately, more than a century of Russian occupation kept these gems away from Western markets for decades.