PALAVANI SAPERAVI

Kakheti's so-called 'cinnamonic' soils — iron-rich, sandy calcareous clays that force deep root development in nutrient-poor ground — are the backbone of what Saperavi delivers here. The continental climate along the Alazani River valley adds hot, dry summers and cold winters, driving concentration in this rare teinturier grape, whose dark skin and dark pulp produce one of the world's most deeply colored reds. Palavani, a Kakheti-based winery working its 120-hectare estate toward organic certification, produces this 100% Saperavi kosher dry red using temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks alongside traditional oak barrel aging. Expect black cherry, cassis, and plum with firm tannins and a savory, earthy finish.