The grape variety Rkatsiteli

Rkatsiteli is a highly esteemed ancient white grape variety originating from Georgia, often regarded as one of the world’s oldest. Its aromatic profile is distinctive, offering fresh notes of green apple, quince, pear, and citrus, underpinned by subtle floral undertones and hints of spiced herbs. On the palate, Rkatsiteli delivers lively acidity and a pleasing minerality, with flavours echoing its nose—crisp orchard fruit, lemon zest, and occasionally a gentle hint of honey or almond when aged.

While Georgia remains the principal producer, notably in the Kakheti region, Rkatsiteli is also cultivated in other Eastern European countries and increasingly found in experimental plantings in New York’s Finger Lakes and China. The grape is incredibly versatile, vinified in a range of styles from dry and refreshingly vibrant wines to semi-sweet and even amber-hued traditional qvevri wines, where extended skin contact gives remarkable structure and complexity.

Rkatsiteli pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its brisk acidity and subtle texture complement grilled fish, shellfish, roasted poultry, and a variety of fresh salads or herb-laden vegetarian dishes. It is also particularly well-suited to Georgian cuisine, such as khachapuri or pkhali.