Dzvelshavi Obchuri

Dzvelshavi Obchuri (literally «the old black of Obcha») is a red grape of Imereti with medium, dark-red berries, a thin skin and juicy, unscented flesh. Its clusters are large, broadly conical and winged; the variety yields well but is prone to fungal disease.

The must is high in sugar (20–22%) with lively acidity (8–10 g/L), so Dzvelshavi is used for red table and sparkling wines and for blending. Historically it was grown around Bagdati, Vani, Sachkhere, Oni and Khashuri; today it is a rare native grape returning to winemaking.