At a glance

Producer

Pheasant's Tears

Region

Georgia (country), Kakheti

Grape variety

Saperavi

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$25-$35

Tasting profile

Bright red fruit (cherry, cranberry), floral notes, earthy underbrush, slight peppery spice

Evolution: With aging, will develop savory, smoky, leather, and mineral complexities with softened tannins

At peak: Complex layers of ripe fruit, spice, earth, and subtle oak integration with silky tannins

Structure

Acidity

High, refreshing

Tannins

Firm, grainy, well-structured

Alcohol

Approx. 12.5-13.5%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2032

Optimal window

2025 to 2035

Current status

Approaching youthful maturity; fresh vibrant tannins and acidity

Current condition

Young, primary fruit flavors dominant; tannins and acidity beginning to integrate

This wine's high acidity and firm tannins enable it to evolve gracefully over a decade or more, moving from vibrant primary fruit to complex tertiary aromas and a silky texture, typical for high-quality Saperavi from Kakheti.

Food pairing

Grilled meats, spicy sausages, hearty stews, aged hard cheeses, dishes with roasted vegetables and herbs

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften firm tannins and open aromas

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Dry farming, indigenous yeast fermentations in qvevri vessels, minimal intervention, use of natural cork, limited filtration

Pheasant's Tears is a pioneer in organic, natural Georgian winemaking with strong commitment to biodiversity, soil health, and minimal technological intervention. Use of qvevri (clay amphorae buried underground) provides natural temperature regulation decreasing energy use. Sustainable farming practices and organic certification underscore low environmental impact.