At a glance

Producer

Pheasant's Tears

Region

Georgia, Kakheti

Grape variety

Kisi

Wine type

Orange

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Amber-orange hue, pronounced tannins, flavors of dried apricots, walnuts, tea leaves, with earthy and spicy undertones.

Evolution: Will develop more complex earthy and oxidative notes, with softened tannins and enhanced mouthfeel.

At peak: Balanced integration of orange wine character, earthiness, and pronounced minerality.

Structure

Acidity

High, vibrant natural acidity

Tannins

Medium-high, natural qvevri tannins

Alcohol

Around 13.5%

Aging potential

Strong - suitable for 12+ years cellaring due to natural tannins and acidity

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2023 to 2035

Current status

Early maturity

Current condition

Youthful freshness with developing complexity

Due to high natural tannins, acidity, and skin contact style typical of Kisi made in qvevri fermentation (ancient Georgian clay vessel), the wine gains complexity and mellows over 8-12 years. 2020 was a balanced vintage in Kakheti supporting strong aging potential.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, roasted root vegetables, aged cheese, mushrooms, mildly spiced Georgian cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

14-16°C / 57-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatics to open from natural wine structure.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Biodynamic and organic viticulture, hand harvesting, minimal intervention winemaking, use of qvevri buried underground reducing energy use

Pheasant’s Tears is a pioneer in sustainable Georgian winemaking emphasizing organic farming and indigenous techniques that conserve local biodiversity and soil health. Their low-intervention style reduces additives and energy use. Shipping overseas from Georgia entails freight emissions, but their practices in the vineyard and cellar align strongly with sustainability principles.