Khvanchkara

Red semi-sweet, Racha

Khvanchkara is a famous red semi-sweet wine from mountainous Racha, from the Aleksandrouli–Mujuretuli blend. It is named after the village of Khvanchkara in the Ambrolauri district and is a protected designation of origin (PDO).

Its natural semi-sweetness arises from the cool mountain climate: fermentation halts of its own accord in the cold, leaving some sugar in the wine — with nothing added. The result is deep ruby, with a raspberry aroma and a soft body.

In the 20th century Khvanchkara gained an almost legendary reputation; imitations abound, so genuine Racha provenance is especially prized.