Otskhanuri Sapere is one of Georgia's oldest and most characterful red grapes, indigenous to Imereti in western Georgia. The name means “Sapere from Otskhanari,” a reference to the village of Otskhana where the variety originated.
Historically used in family vineyards for deep, age-worthy reds, Otskhanuri Sapere nearly disappeared during the Soviet standardisation of wine production.
In recent decades, it has re-emerged as one of Georgia's most respected and terroir-driven red grapes - often described as the “Saperavi of the West.”
The grape produces structured, dark and complex wines, often with firm tannins and pronounced acidity, qualities that give it both power and longevity.
Characteristics
Otskhanuri Sapere ripens late, typically in mid-October and requires warm, well-drained hillside sites to achieve full maturity. The clusters are small and compact, with thick-skinned, deeply coloured berries. The variety is moderately vigorous, best trained with low yields to manage its natural tannic intensity.
It shows high phenolic potential, meaning that even short macerations yield dark, deeply structured wines. The grape's acidity remains firm, which, combined with its colour and body, makes Otskhanuri Sapere one of Georgia's most age-worthy reds.
Taste profile
Otskhanuri Sapere produces some of western Georgia's most powerful and age-worthy reds - deeply colored, intense, and full of character:
- Aromas: black cherry, blackberry, forest fruit, tobacco, dried herbs, and clove
- Palate: full-bodied, firm tannins, high acidity, and a long, slightly savoury finish
- Qvevri styles: add notes of leather, earth, tea leaf and iron-rich minerals
Food pairing
The wine's intensity and structure call for hearty, flavourful dishes:
- Grilled or roasted beef, lamb, or venison
- Pork ribs, barbecue, and spicy stews
- Mushrooms, lentils, and earthy vegetarian cuisine
- Hard cheeses such as aged sulguni or parmesan
Winemaking notes
Fermentation typically lasts 10-14 days, followed by long maceration to integrate tannins. Qvevri aging enhances texture and adds savory complexity, while oak maturation rounds edges without masking fruit. Because of its structure, the grape benefits from aging - high-quality examples evolve beautifully over 5-10 years, gaining harmony and polish.
Natural winemakers often produce unfiltered versions that showcase its raw, mineral-driven character.
Dugladze’s 2022 Otskhanuri Sapere is a barrel-aged dry red wine from western Georgia, showcasing one of the region’s most distinctive native varieties. Deep cherry in colour, it offers refined aromas of red and sour berries, alongside ripe black plum and a subtle hint of oak. On the palate, it is bold yet velvety, with pronounced acidity and the lively structure typical of Otskhanuri Sapere. The oak aging contributes additional depth and smooth texture while preserving the grape’s vibrant, energetic nature. This wine reflects the cool, humid climate of Imereti and Lechkhumi, where Otskhanuri Sapere develops its signature tension and complexity. An excellent choice for those who appreciate high-acid, character-driven red wines with serious structure.
