At a glance

Producer

Pheasant's Tears

Region

Georgia, Kakheti

Grape variety

Rkatsiteli

Wine type

Orange

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$40

Tasting profile

Tart orange peel, dried apricot, honeycomb, notes of herbal tea, textured tannins with a savory finish.

Evolution: Fruit notes will deepen from fresh citrus and orchard fruits to dried and caramelized elements. Tannins soften, and umami/savory characteristics intensify.

At peak: Rich complexity with layered aromas of stone fruit, orange zest, tea leaf, and earthy minerals; silky tannins and balanced acidity.

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp and lively

Tannins

Moderate to firm, characteristic of qvevri maceration

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

8-10 years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2029

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

Drinking well, approaching optimal maturity

Current condition

The wine is drinking well now with vibrant acidity and complexity developing. Cellaring will reward with greater integration of tannins and texture.

The 2020 vintage is fresh but structured; age enhances tannin integration and develops tertiary flavors typical of qvevri orange wines from Georgia, peaking roughly 4-9 years post-vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled meats, roasted root vegetables, aged cheeses, hearty stews, spicy dishes, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

14-16°C / 57-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — Helps soften tannins and open up aromatics characteristic of orange wines.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Biodynamic viticulture, manual harvesting, minimal intervention, qvevri natural fermentation, use of indigenous yeasts, recyclable glass packaging.

Pheasant's Tears is highly committed to sustainability, practicing organic and biodynamic farming without chemical intervention, emphasizing natural yeast fermentation in qvevri clay vessels buried underground which require no heating or cooling. Packaging is environmentally conscious with simple, lighter bottles. The certified organic viticulture and reduced carbon footprint from localized farming contribute significantly to overall sustainability.