At a glance

Producer

North Song

Region

Georgia

Grape variety

Saperavi

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$35

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits, earthy undertones, leather, with hints of spice and tobacco.

Evolution: Fruit flavors will soften, while tertiary notes such as forest floor and dried herbs develop.

At peak: Complex layered aromas with silky tannins and balanced acidity, showing great depth and persistence.

Structure

Acidity

High acidity providing freshness and aging backbone

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

13.5%-14%

Aging potential

Excellent aging potential of 20+ years due to grape variety and winemaking style

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2030

Optimal window

2018 to 2031

Current status

Approaching Optimal Drinkability

Current condition

The wine shows mature secondary notes while retaining vibrant fruit and structure.

Saperavi is a teinturier grape known for deep color, high acidity, and tannic structure ideal for long aging; 2011 was a solid vintage in Georgia allowing the wine to develop complexity over a decade plus.

Food pairing

Hearty grilled meats, game dishes, lamb stew, and aged cheeses complement this wine's bold profile.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (45 minutes to 1 hour) — To soften tannins and allow the complex aromas to open up.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Producer uses sustainable farming practices including minimal chemical use and water conservation initiatives. Packaging uses recyclable glass and cork.

While lacking formal certifications, North Song employs environmentally considerate viticulture and winemaking practices. The regional focus on native grape varieties promotes biodiversity. Moderate carbon footprint typical for an export wine from Eastern Europe.