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Napareuli wine region is one of the oldest wine regions in Georgia. It is located in the northeastern part of Georgia in Kakheti, on the southern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains. Georgia is believed to be the cradle of wine, with 8000 years of history in winemaking. Napareuli wines are known for their unique, full-bodied taste and fruity aromas. The region offers both modern and traditional winemaking practices. Napareuli's two most common types of grapes are Rkatsiteli and Saperavi; therefore, it produces both red and white wine. Many wineries, hotels, and châteaux are located in the region; thus, it is frequently visited throughout the year and is a popular destination for wine lovers. 

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Where is the Napareuli wine region located?

The Napareuli wine region is located in Kakheti, Georgia, a country in the Caucasus region. Kakheti is the most voluminous wine-producing region in the country, and therefore Napareuli plays an essential role in regional wine production. Napareuli appellation covers small villages of Saniore, Jughaani, Artana, Pshaveli and Laliskuri. The vineyards are situated on the left bank of the River Alazani at an altitude of 400-500 m above sea level. The prominent neighbouring appellations are Manavi, Tsinandali and Kvareli, located in the Kakheti region. Due to the advantageous location and favourable conditions, Kakhetian wines are outstanding in the entire geographical area.

History of Napareuli wine region 

Napareuli is a wine region in Georgia with a long history of winemaking. The word "Napareuli" comes from the Georgian word for a sheep flock, and it carries significant meaning, as farming and agriculture were the bulwarks of the Georgian economy by then. Many leaders of the region made tremendous investments in the development of agriculture and winemaking, and they have the lion's share in creating what the wine region represents today. The oldest winery in Napareuli, Georgia, was founded in 1883 by a Georgian nobleman named Prince Ivane Orbeliani and was still functioning until the end of the 20th century. Also, the region has another enormous historical importance as its glorious castle was a shelter for Georgian people during the attacks of Muslim enemies, which were a lot due to the country's geographical location.

Napareuli wine region Terroir

The climate here is humid, with mild winters and long warm summers; the maximum temperature can be 39 °C, but it usually ranges from 5°Cin winter to 27 °C in summer, so there is no real threat of frost. The vineyards in this region are planted on slopes at an altitude of 400-700 m above sea level, which provides an advantage to the grape vines because they receive more sunlight and have better drainage. The average crop is 8000kgs per hectare. The soil composition is also favourable for grape vines because it contains clay, sand, and lime deposits, providing perfect drainage that together makes it suitable for growing grapes. 

Napareuli wine characteristics

Napareuli wine region produces both red and white wines. The winemaking process starts with harvesting grapes that have been grown in local vineyards at the optimum of their maturity. After crushing them, the juice is fermented for about a week before storing it in barrels or stainless steel tanks. These storage units help maintain a constant temperature and humidity. 

The red wine is entirely produced from Saperavi or Sepravi-Budeshuri grapes and is dry. It is full-bodied and moderately acidic, with high alcohol content and sugar content of no more than 4g per litre. Napareuli red wine has flavours of berries like strawberries and cherries, spices like tobacco, leather and vanilla, also other fruity aromas that develop over ageing. White wine is mainly made from the Rkatsiteli grape variety, but up to 15% of locally harvested Kakhuri Mtsvane addition is authorized. It is lightly coloured, moderately acid, with alcohol content not less than 11%. It has a harmonious taste and fruity and floral flavours, with more of them developed over time. 

Food to pair with Napareuli wine

Satsivi

Satsivi is a traditional Georgian dish, very common at new year's festivities. Cooked with turkey meat in rich and creamy walnut sauce and lots of spices, this succulent dish pairs exceptionally well with white wines from the Rkatsiteli grape variety. 

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photo credit:dreamstime.com

Kaurma

Kaurma is a Georgian meat dish originating from the Kakheti region, made from the liver of beef or pork, marinated in wine and stewed with onions and lots of herbs like coriander, cumin, and black pepper. This delicious stew is excellent to savour with a glass of Napareuli red wine. 

Khachapuri Cheese pie

Khachapuri is a versatile Georgian dish, equally typical in every country region. It is also classified as a variant of pizza in Georgian style, a cheese pie made from wheat flour, butter, and lots of cheese melting inside. Khachapuri goes well with any type of wine according to your preferences. 

Places to visit in the Napareuli wine region

Napareuli castle

Napareuli castle is a massive architectural complex built in the 18th century. At some point, it helped the Georgian people a lot to hide from the enemies and defend themselves thanks to its giant fence, making boundaries and enclosing an area of ground. The castle is an impressive sight with its yards and an absolute must-see to learn more about the history and culture of the region.

Qvevri Wine Museum

Qvevri is a traditional winemaking clay vessel historically used in Georgia. The museum is an excellent opportunity to learn about qvevris. You can see all processes, including how the clay is prepared and the wine vases are created. You can also watch as different-sized vessels are washed and then dried. 

Alaverdi St. George Cathedral

Located about 15 kilometres from Napareuli, Alaverdi Cathedral is a massive monument of Georgian heritage monument built in the 11th century. This orthodox church is 55 metres high and is the tallest cathedral in Georgia, a true expression of Georgian culture and its dedication to the religion.

Frequently Asked Questions about Napareuli wine region

What is the Napareuli region?

Napareuli region is a wine-producing area, under the same appellation, in the Kakheti region, eastern Georgia.

What kind of grapes are grown in the Napareuli wine region for wine production?

The most common authorized grape varieties produced in Napareuli are, Saperavi and Saperavi-like for red wine and Rkatsiteli for white wine.

What are the major wine styles in the Napareuli wine region?

Napareuli wine region mainly produces dry red and white wines with fruity aromas.

Map of Wineries in Napareuli

Discover the locations of wineries in Napareuli

Wineries in Napareuli