At a glance

Producer

Pheasant's Tears

Region

Kakheti, Georgia

Grape variety

Chinuri

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$18-$25

Tasting profile

Bright citrus, white flowers, stone fruits, mild tannic grip from skin contact, mineral undertones

Evolution: Develops richer texture and complexity with notes of nuttiness and dried fruit over 3-5 years

At peak: Balanced integration of acidity, earthy minerality, and savory depth

Structure

Acidity

High, fresh and crisp

Tannins

Low to medium (typical for qvevri white wines)

Alcohol

12.5%-13.5%

Aging potential

5-7 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2023 to 2028

Current status

Optimal to enjoy fresh with some cellaring potential

Current condition

Young, vibrant, showcasing bright acidity and floral notes

The 2022 vintage in Kakheti has good ripeness balanced by acidity. This Chinuri benefits from short-term bottle aging to soften tannins and develop complex tertiary aromas but retains freshness. The wine's structure supports aging around 5-7 years from vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled white fish, fresh shellfish, light poultry dishes, vegetable terrines, and dishes with herbs and spices typical to Georgian cuisine.

Serving

Serving temperature

10-12°C / 50-54°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Natural viticulture with hand harvesting, no synthetic pesticides or herbicides, minimal intervention winemaking in qvevri (traditional clay amphorae), solar energy used at winery, water conservation techniques in vineyard

Pheasant's Tears embodies sustainable practices from vineyard to cellar by following organic and biodynamic standards, avoiding chemical inputs, using traditional qvevri fermentation minimizing energy use, and modest packaging reducing environmental impact. Their focus on natural terroir expression supports biodiversity and soil health. Local production with mostly regional distribution and low-tech processes further contribute to reduced carbon emissions.