Everything About Rkatsiteli Grape
"rkah-tsee-teh-lee" 
Rkatsiteli Description
Origin: Kakheti region, Georgia
History: Rkatsiteli is an ancient grape variety from Georgia, with a history tracing back over 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest known grape varieties. The name 'Rkatsiteli' translates to 'red stem' in Georgian, referring to the reddish hue of its vine stems. It was once one of the most widely planted white grape varieties in the world, particularly during the Soviet era, where it accounted for a significant portion of wine production. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Georgian viticulture and is also cultivated in various other regions worldwide.
Appearance: Pale-skinned berries with a greenish-yellow hue, growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Rkatsiteli is known for its resilience to cold climates and its ability to retain high acidity even in hot summers. It thrives in a variety of soil types, including clay, loamy soils, volcanic ash, and limestone. The grape's high acidity makes it suitable for a range of wine styles, from dry to sweet, and contributes to its exceptional aging potential.
Food Pairing Rkatsiteli's high acidity and versatile flavor profile make it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with seafood, poultry, and dishes with citrus-based sauces. Its crispness complements salads, light appetizers, and cheeses like feta and goat cheese. The wine's versatility also allows it to pair with spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the acidity balances the heat.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, often exhibiting a vibrant acidity. Typically dry, though off-dry and sweet versions exist, showcasing versatility in winemaking styles. Negligible tannin levels, as it is a white grape variety primarily used in white wine production. High acidity, contributing to its crispness and excellent aging potential. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 11% to 13%, enhancing its light and approachable nature.
Green apple 
Quince 
White peach 
Citrus 
Floral 
Honey Rkatsiteli wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, quince, and white peach, with subtle hints of citrus and floral aromas. Some expressions may also exhibit honeyed nuances, especially in sweeter styles. The high acidity and light body make these wines crisp and refreshing, often with a slight minerality that enhances their character.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/georgia.png)
Georgia
•Kakheti
•Kartli
•Imereti
•Racha-Lechkhumi
![[object Object] Region](/regions/russia.png)
Russia
•Krasnodar
•Stavropol
![[object Object] Region](/regions/ukraine.png)
Ukraine
•Odessa
•Crimea
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•Finger Lakes, New York
•Virginia
•North Carolina
Notable Wines and Producers
Dr. Konstantin Frank Rkatsiteli
•Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Château Mukhrani Rkatsiteli
•Château Mukhrani
Pheasant's Tears Rkatsiteli
•Pheasant's Tears Winery
Rkatsiteli FAQ
Kakheti region, Georgia
Rkatsiteli has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Rkatsiteli is Moderate to Light bodied.
Rkatsiteli has a dryness level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Rkatsiteli is Semi-Dry.
Kakheti region, Georgia
Rkatsiteli is grown in Georgia (Kakheti, Kartli, Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi)Russia (Krasnodar, Stavropol)Ukraine (Odessa, Crimea)United States (Finger Lakes, New York, Virginia, North Carolina).
Rkatsiteli wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, quince, and white peach, with subtle hints of citrus and floral aromas. Some expressions may also exhibit honeyed nuances, especially in sweeter styles. The high acidity and light body make these wines crisp and refreshing, often with a slight minerality that enhances their character.
Rkatsiteli's high acidity and versatile flavor profile make it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with seafood, poultry, and dishes with citrus-based sauces. Its crispness complements salads, light appetizers, and cheeses like feta and goat cheese. The wine's versatility also allows it to pair with spicy cuisines, such as Thai or Indian, as the acidity balances the heat.
Rkatsiteli wines are known for their aromatic complexity and vibrant acidity. Common tasting notes include green apple, quince, and white peach, with subtle hints of citrus and floral aromas. Some expressions may also exhibit honeyed nuances, especially in sweeter styles. The high acidity and light body make these wines crisp and refreshing, often with a slight minerality that enhances their character.