Tchotiashvili Kisi 2020
Tchotiashvili · Georgia, Kakheti
At a glance
- Producer
- Tchotiashvili
- Region
- Georgia, Kakheti
- Grape variety
- Kisi
- Wine type
- Orange
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $20-$30
Tasting profile
Rich amber-orange color; aromas of dried apricot, honey, dried herbs, and slight nuttiness; palate shows chewiness, almond skin bitterness, dried citrus peel, and stone fruit flavors.
Evolution: Over the next 3-5 years, will develop more complexity with softer tannins and greater nuttiness and earthiness.
At peak: Expect enhanced layered texture with mature dried fruit and mineral notes integrated with a lingering finish.
Structure
- Acidity
- High acidity, vibrant and refreshing
- Tannins
- Medium to medium-plus, characteristic of skin-contact orange wines
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- Good aging potential over 8-10 years due to natural tannins and acidity from Kisi grape and qvevri method
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2025 to 2030
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2030
- Current status
- Approaching optimal drinkability
- Current condition
- The wine has developed some tertiary notes but retains good freshness and structure.
The Kisi grape fermented by traditional qvevri method builds robust tannic structure and acidity, enabling medium-term aging that softens over time while deepening flavors. The vintage 2020 shows good balance now with a window peaking 2025-2030 reflecting optimal development of tertiary notes.
Food pairing
Pairs excellently with rich poultry dishes, Middle Eastern spiced cuisine, creamy cheeses like aged ricotta, and roasted root vegetables.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 12-14°C / 54-57°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open up
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Small estate producer; low intervention winemaking; reliance on indigenous yeasts; traditional clay qvevri fermentation reduces energy use; no chemical additives
The winemaking is rooted in traditional Georgian qvevri methods which are naturally low impact with minimal chemical input, use of local grapes, and energy-efficient natural fermentation. However, lack of formal certifications limits higher sustainability scoring. Imported distribution contributes to carbon footprint.