At a glance

Producer

Dakishvili Family Selection

Region

Kakheti, Georgia

Grape variety

Saperavi

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$28-$40 USD

Tasting profile

Intense dark berry fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant), ripe plum, hints of violets, subtle smoke, cedar and spice; powerful palate with assertive tannins.

Evolution: Fruit integrates with earthy and savory notes (graphite, forest floor), oak and spices become more harmonious, tannins soften and round out.

At peak: Complex bouquet of dark fruit, prune, tobacco, leather, dried violet, mature structure, long finish, tertiary complexity emerges after 5-7 years.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-High, balancing weight

Tannins

High, robust, grippy

Alcohol

13.5%-14.5% ABV

Aging potential

8-15 years from vintage; can evolve beautifully in proper cellaring.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2032

Optimal window

2026 to 2034

Current status

Infant (Very Young, needs aging)

Current condition

Primary fruit-forward, structure tight; warrants further integration.

Saperavi from Dakishvili is renowned for depth and longevity; peak window (2028-2032) offers the best synergy of fruit, structure, and tertiary aromatics, but can hold longer in excellent cellaring.

Food pairing

Georgian lamb dishes (chakapuli), grilled meats, aged cheeses, hearty beef stews, roasted mushrooms, venison.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and aerate youthful structure, allowing aromatics to unfold.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Dakishvili Family employs hand-harvesting, minimal intervention, water resource management, local labor prioritization, and utilizes lighter-weight bottles to reduce packaging impact.

The Dakishvili Family, a leading artisan producer in Georgia, emphasizes traditional winemaking with responsible modern practices. Although not formally certified organic or biodynamic as of the 2023 vintage, the estate prioritizes soil health, limits chemical inputs, and uses sustainable farming techniques. Their lighter packaging lowers transport emissions. However, the overall footprint for international markets increases due to distance shipped from Georgia. Some improvement possible with formal certifications and eco-friendly logistics, but estate’s practices rank above average for the region.