At a glance

Producer

Pheasant's Tears

Region

Qvevri, Kakheti, Georgia

Grape variety

Rkatsiteli

Wine type

Orange

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35

Tasting profile

Aromas of dried apricot, orange peel, light spice, with earthy undertones and a textured palate

Evolution: Expected gradual softening of tannins and integration of earthy and floral notes over next 3-5 years

At peak: Complex orange wine with balance between fruit intensity and savory depth

Structure

Acidity

High, characteristic of Rkatsiteli

Tannins

Medium, natural tannins from skin-contact

Alcohol

12.5-13.0%

Aging potential

7-10 years, possibly longer with ideal cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2030

Optimal window

2023 to 2030

Current status

Approaching early optimal drinking window

Current condition

Wine likely showing fresh, vibrant aromatics and developing texture

The natural tannins and high acidity typical of Rkatsiteli wines from qvevri fermentation provide structure for medium-term aging. The 2022 vintage freshness will integrate nicely over the next few years reaching peak complexity by 2025-2030.

Food pairing

Pairs well with roasted root vegetables, grilled poultry, Middle Eastern spices, and hard cheeses like aged Gouda or Pecorino.

Serving

Serving temperature

14-16°C / 57-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To allow pronounced tannins and complex aromatics to open up and soften

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Biodynamic farming, minimal intervention, traditional qvevri fermentation in clay vessels buried underground

Pheasant's Tears is a leading natural wine producer in Georgia employing organic vineyard management with biodynamic principles, minimal additives, and traditional local techniques. The use of qvevri vessels eliminates industrial processing energy. Packaging uses recycled materials. While export to global markets increases carbon footprint, the focus remains on sustainable practices from vineyard to bottle.