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On this edition of The NOLADrinks Show with Bryan Dias, we explore wines and their connected, rich culture and history from the country of Georgia. We’re joined by Noel Brockett of Georgian Wine House.
Pictured above – Several great wines from the country of Georgia. See our list (in order from left to right) below.
NOLADrinks Show – Wines of Georgia – Apr20Ep3
We start off this week’s show and we let you know what we’re up to on this episode.
Then, we move on to our featured interview with Noel Brockett. Noel is the director of sales and operations for Georgian Wine House, an importer and specialist in the wines of Georgia.
With a history of winemaking (perhaps, in its earliest form) that dates back over 8,000 years, we discuss some aspects of this rich story and tradition that has played an important role in the world of wine for millennia. Noel gives us an historical overview along with sharing concepts of traditional and contemporary winemaking including the use of “qvevri” (pronounced “Kwev-ree”), a ceramic fermentation and holding vessel.
We also discuss the contemporary landscape for Georgian wines and, of course, sample several terrific examples including three ambers and two reds. All are generally crafted in a natural wine style and utilized qvevri in their production. We touch on terroir, flavor profiles, and food pairing ideas.
For “Another Shot with NOLADrinks,” Noel sticks around and we discuss his background and personal connection to the culture. We sample and discuss two of the wines we didn’t get to in the radio portion of the show.
Pictured at left – Noel Brockett of Georgian Wine House.
We also continue our discussion of history, including contemporary times involving a complicated relationship with the former Soviet Union and Russia. We also further our discussion on winemaking and terroir in the country.
Here is a great resource for more information on wines of Georgia – Wines Georgia. Below is a map of wine regions and key varietals found in those regions. Here are the wines we tasted:
- Tevza “Tevza Goruli Mtsvane” Goruli Mtsvane Kartli 2018 (Amber)
- Vinoterra “Vinoterra Kisi” Kisi Kakheti 2017 (Amber)
- Chona’s Marani “Chona’s Mtsvane” Mtsvane Kakheti 2018 (Amber)
- Teleda “Dila-o Saperavi” Saperavi Kakheti 2018 (Red)
- Chona’s Marani “Chona’s Saperavi” Saperavi Kakheti 2018 (Red)
We close things out with our “Parting Shot” discussing how integrating understanding the history and provenance of what you’re drinking can enhance and improve your tasting skills.
Cheers and Be Well, You All!
~ Bryan
Pictured above – Wine regions and major varietals of Georgia. Courtesy of Wines Georgia.