Makaridze Winery
Otskhanuri Sapere
Imereti, Georgia
Makaridze Winery – Otskhanuri Sapere 2022
Imereti – Georgia 🇬🇪
Overview
Made from 100% Otskhanuri Sapere, one of western Georgia’s oldest and most characterful indigenous red grapes, this 2022 vintage from Makaridze Winery highlights the bold, rustic style that the variety is known for. (Educational note: Otskhanuri Sapere is native to Imereti and produces deeply colored, high-acid, ageworthy wines — sometimes compared to Saperavi, but generally spicier and more tannic.)
Aromas & Flavors
Dark plum, blackberry, and sour cherry layered with black pepper, clove, and earthy undertones. Secondary notes of forest herbs and tobacco bring depth and intensity.
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied with robust tannins and lively acidity. Structured and firm, yet lifted by freshness, finishing long, savory, and slightly rustic.
Food Pairings
Best with hearty dishes: roasted lamb, beef stew, or game meats. Also works well with aged hard cheeses or mushroom-heavy Georgian cuisine.
Verdict
A powerful, structured red — bold and expressive, with both rustic charm and serious aging potential. The 2022 Otskhanuri Sapere is a striking example of Imereti’s winemaking heritage. 🍷
Did You Know?
“Otskhanuri Sapere” roughly translates to “sapere (color/dye) from Otskhanuri”, referencing the grape’s deeply pigmented skins and regional origins. It is considered one of Georgia’s top red grapes for longevity.
Hidden Gem 💎
Still rare outside Georgia, Otskhanuri Sapere is a true indigenous treasure. This 2022 bottling by Makaridze Winery is both authentic and distinctive — a must-try for lovers of bold reds.
Makaridze Winery – Otskhanuri Sapere 2022
Imereti – Georgia 🇬🇪
Overview
Made from 100% Otskhanuri Sapere, one of western Georgia’s oldest and most characterful indigenous red grapes, this 2022 vintage from Makaridze Winery highlights the bold, rustic style that the variety is known for. (Educational note: Otskhanuri Sapere is native to Imereti and produces deeply colored, high-acid, ageworthy wines — sometimes compared to Saperavi, but generally spicier and more tannic.)
Aromas & Flavors
Dark plum, blackberry, and sour cherry layered with black pepper, clove, and earthy undertones. Secondary notes of forest herbs and tobacco bring depth and intensity.
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied with robust tannins and lively acidity. Structured and firm, yet lifted by freshness, finishing long, savory, and slightly rustic.
Food Pairings
Best with hearty dishes: roasted lamb, beef stew, or game meats. Also works well with aged hard cheeses or mushroom-heavy Georgian cuisine.
Verdict
A powerful, structured red — bold and expressive, with both rustic charm and serious aging potential. The 2022 Otskhanuri Sapere is a striking example of Imereti’s winemaking heritage. 🍷
Did You Know?
“Otskhanuri Sapere” roughly translates to “sapere (color/dye) from Otskhanuri”, referencing the grape’s deeply pigmented skins and regional origins. It is considered one of Georgia’s top red grapes for longevity.
Hidden Gem 💎
Still rare outside Georgia, Otskhanuri Sapere is a true indigenous treasure. This 2022 bottling by Makaridze Winery is both authentic and distinctive — a must-try for lovers of bold reds.