All About Rkatsiteli

Appearance

  • Color: Pale straw to golden
  • Opacity: Medium clarity to slightly hazy (especially in amber wine styles)

Aroma

  • Primary Aromas: Green apple, citrus (lemon, lime), pear
  • Secondary Aromas: Herbal notes, white flowers, stone fruit (apricot, peach)
  • Tertiary Aromas: Honey, nuts, dried fruits, earthy (more prominent in amber wine styles made in Qvevri)

Flavor Profile

  • Fruit Flavors: Green apple, citrus (lemon, lime), apricot, peach
  • Other Flavors: Herbs, floral notes, and honey (especially in amber wines)
  • Oak Influence: Minimal or none traditionally, but can have slight oak influence when aged in barrels, adding notes of vanilla or toast.

Structure

  • Body: Medium to full-bodied (especially in amber wine styles)
  • Tannins: Low (higher in amber wines due to skin contact)
  • Acidity: High, providing freshness and longevity
  • Alcohol: Typically 11-13.5%

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Pairings for Rkatsiteli

Grilled Fish

Grilled fish offers a delightful combination of smoky and delicate flavors, making it an ideal pairing with wines that complement its texture and taste. Light and flaky fish, such as sea bass or flounder, pairs well with crisp, zesty whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Medium-textured fish, like trout or red snapper, benefit from fuller-bodied whites like Chardonnay or dry Riesling. Meaty fish, such as tuna or swordfish, can handle more robust wines, including oaked Chardonnay, Viognier, or even a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir.

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Light poultry dishes, such as grilled chicken or turkey breast with herbs

Light poultry dishes, such as grilled chicken or turkey breast, are flavorful, health-conscious options that showcase the tender and juicy nature of these meats. Grilling enhances their natural flavors while keeping them moist, especially when seasoned with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley. These dishes are versatile, allowing for various marinades and side accompaniments. Their lean protein content makes them ideal for lighter meals or summer dining, offering a satisfying yet nutritious option that pairs well with various sides and wines.

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Spicy Asian Cuisine

Spicy Asian cuisine, such as Thai curries, Sichuan dishes, and Korean BBQ, is known for its bold flavors, combining heat from chili, ginger, or peppercorns with savory, umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce and fish sauce. The challenge in pairing wine with these dishes is to balance the heat while enhancing the dish's complexity. Wines with lower alcohol, high acidity, and slight sweetness are ideal as they cool down the spice, while still allowing the flavors of the dish to shine. Aromatic whites or fruity reds work well to complement the heat​.

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