Teliani Valley Glekhuri Kisi Qvevri Orange 2021

Teliani Valley Glekhuri Kisi Qvevri Orange 2021 is an expressive Georgian wine deeply rooted in an ancient winemaking tradition. It is made from 100 percent Kisi, an indigenous grape variety from the Kakheti region, widely regarded as the historic heart of Georgian viticulture. The wine is produced using the traditional qvevri method, in which the juice ferments and matures together with skins, seeds and sometimes stems in large clay vessels buried underground. This age old approach defines the character of the wine and gives it a strong sense of identity.

In the glass, the wine shows a clear amber color with copper highlights, offering an immediate visual hint of its intensity. The nose is layered and open, revealing aromas of dried apricot, orange peel and ripe apple, followed by notes of honey, walnut, tea and wild herbs. Earthy nuances and a subtle floral touch add further depth and complexity. The aromatic profile feels harmonious, with no single element overpowering the others.

On the palate, the wine is dry and vibrant, with a pronounced structure derived from extended skin contact. The tannins are clearly present yet refined, providing grip rather than austerity and contributing to a tactile, almost textural mouthfeel. Lively acidity brings tension and freshness, keeping the wine energetic despite its richness. Flavors of dried fruit, citrus zest and gentle spice reappear, interwoven with mineral and earthy tones that are characteristic of qvevri aged wines.

The finish is long and distinctive, marked by a gentle bitterness reminiscent of tea leaves and orange peel, followed by a warm, natural conclusion. This is a wine that embraces an intentionally unpolished style, valuing purity and authenticity over refinement. It unfolds slowly, rewarding attention and patience. Teliani Valley Glekhuri Kisi Qvevri Orange 2021 stands as a genuine expression of Georgian wine culture, where tradition, terroir and grape variety come together in a bold, characterful and memorable form.