Kartli

The region covers several vineyard settings around central Georgia rather than one narrow river valley. Chinuri and Goruli Mtsvane are important white grapes, with Tavkveri and Shavkapito among the reds. These names provide a different route into Georgian wine from the more internationally familiar Rkatsiteli and Saperavi of Kakheti.

Kartli makes a useful comparison for anyone who thinks Georgian wine always means a deeply coloured amber style. Grape and method are separate questions: a local white may be made with skin contact or with a fresher, paler approach. Ask about the vessel and maceration rather than assuming the region dictates the technique.