🍇 Chinuri

Chinuri is a white grape variety from Kartli, the central part of Georgia. It is known for sparkling wines, although still wines are also made from it. It grows in the Shida Kartli and Kvemo Kartli regions, including the areas of Atenuri, Okami and Bolnisi. The climate is continental, with warm summers and cool winters.

Chinuri is valued for its high acidity, which is especially important for sparkling wines. Still wines are pale and fresh, with a light aroma of flowers and apple. Wines are also made from it in the Georgian tradition, in clay qvevri vessels. Sparkling wine is usually made by the classic method, with fermentation in the bottle. It is dry and refreshing.

The variety is tied to Georgian wine and to Kartli. Among related varieties the VIVC database lists Mtsvilmtvala Tetri. Chinuri is not as well known abroad as the red Saperavi, but interest in it is growing among those who look for unusual white wines. They are served cold, with light starters, cheese and fish.