The wines of Abkhazia, along with the wines of Georgia and Crimea, are very popular both among residents of the countries of the former USSR and throughout the world. The small republic of Abkhazia became famous for its winemaking for a reason. According to historical sources, winemaking in this area was practiced five thousand years ago. The tradition of winemaking on this land has been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years. There are grape varieties that are grown exclusively in Abkhazia. The favorable climate of the subtropics has a positive effect on the growth of any type of grape. In addition, wine made from grapes grown in a specific region of Abkhazia will differ in taste from wine made from grapes grown in another region of the republic.
Features of winemaking on the territory of Abkhazia
Due to the fact that a warm and humid climate prevails in the Abkhaz region, the main European grape varieties do not take root well - they are often affected by mold and give a small harvest. Therefore, special types of grapes grow here, from which special wines are made, the only ones in the whole world (Tsolikouri, Kacic and so on). The vine grows in these areas both on the slopes of the mountains and on the Black Sea coast. Nevertheless, one of the main varieties is Isabella - a hybrid type grape native to America. Isabella is a foundational part of many wines.
Despite the fact that winemaking in Abkhazia is an age-old tradition, this occupation has a home character, that is, a kind of family hobby. The production of wine on an industrial scale began only after the twenties of the twentieth century.
The peculiarity of the Abkhazian wines is that many imported grape varieties are mixed with local varieties. That is why the wines of Abkhazia are unique in their kind, unparalleled in the whole world.
At the moment, the technology of wine production on the territory of Abkhazia has been modernized as much as possible and has all the latest methods. The grapes are harvested between October and December. The harvested crop is squeezed in special troughs and aged for several days. After fermentation, the liquid is poured in its pure form into barrels or amphorae made of ceramics for further aging. Abkhazia has national traditions associated with wine. For example, on New Year's Eve, according to the old calendar, it is customary to uncork an amphora with wine, set a rich table and slaughter a goat.
Each region of the republic has its own special wine. For example, wines from the regions of Lykhny, Garp and Achandar are more popular. Abkhazian wines are sold all over the world and are very popular among gourmets. The main Abkhazian winery is Sukhumi. At the end of the nineties, all equipment was reconstructed at this enterprise. At the moment, about 2-3 million bottles are produced in one year. The wines of this factory are constantly awarded with the highest marks at the international level. The excellent ratio of quality and price of wine of the Sukhumi winery allows them to be constantly in demand.
Red wine species of the solar republic
- Bouquet of Abkhazia - dessert wine with a strength of 16% is made from Isabella grapes. The drink has a dark red color and a fruity-strawberry bouquet. This wine is in perfect harmony with various sweet desserts.
- Wine Cahors New Athos is a dessert type wine with the same alcohol content, made from Cabernet and Sauvignon grapes with the addition of other varieties (about 20%). The wine has a mild taste with a long-lasting creamy aftertaste. This wine is considered an ecclesiastical wine, therefore it is often used in various church rites.
- Lykhny wine is semi-sweet with a small strength - 9-11%. Made from Isabella grapes. The drink has a light fruit and strawberry flavor. The drink goes well with meat and fruit dishes. It was named after the town of the same name.
- Apsny wine is considered semi-sweet with a strength of 9-11%. It is made from Saperavi, Cabernet and Merlot grapes. It has a berry aroma. The drink is served with meat dishes, chocolate, fruits and desserts.
- Achandara is a sparkling wine. Its strength is about 11-13%. Made from 80% Isabella. Has a rich fruit flavor. Usually wine is served with various types of cheeses, poultry, nuts, fruits and dried fruits.
- Amra wine is semi-dry, blended with a total strength of 9-11%. Consists of a variety of red grapes. It has a berry aroma and is served with meat.
- Eschera is a semi-dry wine with a strength of 9-11%. Made from Isabella grapes and other similar varieties. Has a ruby color and rich berry flavor. This wine is named after the village of Eshera. A drink is served with meat and poultry.
- Rada's wine is a dry wine with a strength of 10-12%. Made from Isabella and is a wedding wine. It has a bright red color and fruit and berry aroma with a hint of berries and spices. Usually consumed with grilled meats.
- Dry wine Chegem. The total strength is 10-12%. Made from Cabernet grapes. This wine is considered one of the youngest wines of Abkhazia, its production began in 2002. Has a tart, sweetish taste with a mild bitterness. Also goes well with meat dishes.
- Ashta Lasha belongs to dry wines with a strength of 13% and is considered a collection wine. It is made from Saperavi and Ojalesh grapes. The wine is aged for at least two years. It has a bright ruby color and a complex, woody taste with undertones of berries and fruits. Wine is served with meat dishes and old types of cheese.
- The Atauad Gumista Ashta wine is classified as a dry type of wines. Its strength is 13%. It is made from Cabernet, Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. The drink has a very rich bouquet with melon, pepper and raspberry aromas. Ideal with game, cheeses and grilled meats.
White types of wines of Abkhazia
- Psou wine is a semi-sweet wine with a strength of about 9-11%. It is made from Tsolikouri or Riesling and Aligote grapes. It has a wheat shade with a fruity and branchy aroma. This drink is served with various salads, cold appetizers and desserts. The name comes from the Psou River, which separates the Russian Federation and Abkhazia.
- Anakopia is a semi-dry wine with a strength of 9-11%, which is made from Riesling and Rkatsiteli grapes. The drink has a light and refreshing effect with a long-lasting aftertaste. Its name means the ancient heart of the Republic of Anakopia. The drink goes well with seafood.
- Dioscuria is a dry blended wine with a strength of about 10-12 percent. Prepared from white grapes. It has a complex and rich floral bouquet and delicate herbal aroma. Served with vegetables, poultry and white meat.
Wine drinking culture in Abkhazia
On the territory of the republic, wine is considered more than an alcoholic drink. From ancient times it was considered a divine drink, a cure for many ailments. It is customary to drink wine here at lunchtime, but collectible types of wines are opened on holidays.
When holding a festive feast in Abkhazia (except for a mourning one), a toastmaster is usually chosen, who is considered one of the most respected people. In the republic, the sequence of the main toasts is strictly observed. Each feast must begin with a ritual toast, in which residents turn to the Almighty for a blessing. One of the fundamental roles in the republic's feast is considered to be toast at the table with a glass of wine. Moreover, as a sign of respect for the older generation, young people should hold their glasses lower than their parents. All major toasts are made while standing. The toastmaster, conducting the feast, makes speeches, and in his hands holds the ceremonial heart and liver of the animal sacrificed. The culture of drinking among the Abkhazians is that you need to have good oratorical skills, as well as be able to drink wine in moderation, without getting drunk. The length of the celebration with a feast is quite long, most often going deep after midnight. Guests, saying goodbye to each other until the next reason to pack up, demonstrate a confident gait.
Abkhazia is famous for its hospitality and centuries-old traditions. When the hostess meets the guests, she casts a magic spell, wrap her hand around their heads, taking upon herself all the troubles and hardships of the visitors. Typically, guests are offered all the best in the farm, delicious meat cooked on charcoal with herbs and pomegranate, smoked cheeses, nuts in grape juice, as well as a jug of Isabella wine. Crystal clear nature, wholesome and healthy food are the secrets of a long and healthy life in the Republic of Abkhazia.
