🍷 Iveria 2017 Ojaleshi Semi-Sweet Red Wine – Kakheti, Georgia
Indigenous Georgian Grape • Semi-Sweet Red • From Georgia’s Legendary Winemaking Region
Discover Ojaleshi – A Rare and Aromatic Red from the Heart of Georgia
The Iveria 2017 Ojaleshi Semi-Sweet Red Wine is a striking expression of one of Georgia’s most captivating native red grape varieties—Ojaleshi. Traditionally grown in western Georgia’s mountainous Samegrelo region, Ojaleshi is known for its deeply pigmented color, enchanting aromatics, and naturally semi-sweet character. In this bottling, the grape is cultivated in Kakheti, Georgia’s premier winemaking region, renowned for its rich winemaking history and exceptional terroir.
This wine offers a rare combination of lush red fruit flavors, balanced sweetness, and vibrant acidity, making it a must-try for enthusiasts seeking to explore the diversity of Georgian wine.
🍇 Grape & Terroir
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Grape Variety: 100% Ojaleshi – an indigenous Georgian red grape known for aromatic complexity and natural sweetness
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Region: Kakheti, Georgia – the country’s most renowned and productive wine region, located in eastern Georgia
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Vintage: 2017
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Winemaking: Traditional vinification, fermentation stopped early to retain natural sugar, no artificial additives
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Style: Naturally semi-sweet red wine
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Alcohol: ~12% ABV
🍷 Tasting Notes
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Color: Deep ruby with violet hues
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Aroma: Intensely fragrant with notes of wild raspberry, cherry compote, rose petal, and hints of spice and vanilla
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Palate: Juicy and smooth with a harmonious balance of ripe red berries, gentle sweetness, and refreshing acidity. Hints of cinnamon, clove, and pomegranate molasses add complexity
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Texture: Silky mouthfeel with soft tannins
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Finish: Lush and lingering, with a vibrant, fruit-forward finish
🍽️ Food Pairing Suggestions
This semi-sweet Georgian red pairs beautifully with:
- Spiced lamb kebabs or roasted duck with fruit glaze
- Blue cheese or nutty aged cheeses
- Dark chocolate truffles or berry tarts
- Spicy Asian dishes or barbecue pork
🍇 About Ojaleshi & Kakheti
Ojaleshi, meaning “growing on a tree” in Georgian, is a rare red grape once trained to grow on trees and fences in western Georgia’s Samegrelo region. It produces naturally semi-sweet wines with low tannins, vibrant aromas, and great food-pairing potential. While traditionally from Samegrelo, the grape adapts well to Kakheti, where the warmer, drier climate brings out deeper fruit concentration and complexity.
Kakheti is the heartland of Georgian winemaking, home to the country’s most celebrated vineyards and ancient qvevri winemaking tradition. Its diverse microclimates and nutrient-rich soils offer the perfect conditions to showcase the beauty of Georgia’s indigenous varieties like Ojaleshi.
💬 In Summary
The Iveria 2017 Ojaleshi Semi-Sweet Red Wine is a beautifully balanced wine that highlights the rich viticultural heritage of Georgia. With its expressive aromas, soft sweetness, and refreshing finish, it’s an exceptional introduction to the world of Georgian red wines—both exotic and approachable.
Perfect for special occasions, adventurous pairings, or sipping on its own, this wine tells a story of tradition, terroir, and taste.
