Okureshuli
Usakhelauri
About Okureshis Usakhelouri PDO
Okureshis Usakhelouri PDO (protected destination of Origin)
"Okureshis Usakhelouri" is not just a wine; it is an emblematic representation of Georgia's rich viticulture. This red wine varies in sugar content, being available as dry, naturally semi-dry, or naturally semi-sweet. Beyond its deep, cherish-red hue, its organoleptic properties are defined by vibrant undertones of red plum and currant, complemented by a harmoniously tart taste and well-balanced tannins. The wine boasts specific physico-chemical characteristics, ensuring its premium quality with stringent regulations on parameters such as alcohol, sugar, and acidity levels.
The Unique Terroir of Okureshis Usakhelouri
Embedded in the Racha-Lechkhumi region, the micro-zone of Okureshis Usakhelouri is geographically confined to specific villages located between altitudes of 350-650 meters above sea level. The terrain, characterized by the Tskhenistskali River and flanked by imposing mountain ridges, benefits from a unique microclimate. This results in a wine influenced by the balance of moderately cold winters, long warm summers, optimal sunshine duration, and adequate annual precipitation.
The soils in this zone, ranging from heavy loam to light clays, are rich in nutrients. The combination of optimal sunlight, high temperatures in the ripening months of July and August, and the dramatic temperature variations between day and night in September and October, contribute to a rapid increase in sugar concentration in the grapes. These conditions, along with the loamy soils, foster the perfect ripening of grapes, ensuring a fine balance of acidity, sugar content, and accumulation of polyphenols.
The soils in this zone, ranging from heavy loam to light clays, are rich in nutrients. The combination of optimal sunlight, high temperatures in the ripening months of July and August, and the dramatic temperature variations between day and night in September and October, contribute to a rapid increase in sugar concentration in the grapes. These conditions, along with the loamy soils, foster the perfect ripening of grapes, ensuring a fine balance of acidity, sugar content, and accumulation of polyphenols.
Traditional vineyard practices
The grape central to this wine's production is the exclusive "Usakhelouri," grown solely in the micro-zone. Any deviations or inclusions of other grape varieties are strictly prohibited. Vineyards are strategically positioned between 350-650 meters above sea level, with specific regulations governing vine spacing, stem height, and pruning techniques. This meticulous attention to vineyard cultivation ensures that only the ripest grapes, with a sugar content of no less than 23% at the vintage, are used.
Crafting the Wine: From Grape to Bottle
The journey of Okureshis Usakhelouri from vine to glass is one of tradition, precision, and stringent guidelines. Grapes are transported in wooden or plastic boxes, ensuring cleanliness and avoiding contamination. The grape processing and wine production are confined to the micro-zone, while bottling can extend beyond, yet strictly within Georgian boundaries.
The winemaking process involves the complete or partial fermentation of wild must, adhering to Georgian Legislation. This legislation dictates permissible operations, materials, and substances, ensuring the wine’s purity and quality. The final product is only introduced to the market in consumer vessels, further preserving its authenticity.
The winemaking process involves the complete or partial fermentation of wild must, adhering to Georgian Legislation. This legislation dictates permissible operations, materials, and substances, ensuring the wine’s purity and quality. The final product is only introduced to the market in consumer vessels, further preserving its authenticity.
The Legacy and Reputation of Okureshis Usakhelouri
The region of Lechkhumi is historically renowned for its viticultural prowess, boasting an array of indigenous grape varieties and unique winemaking techniques. The name "Usakhelouri" itself pays homage to the village of Usakhelo in Lechkhumi. After its industrial-scale production initiated in the post-war era of the 1940s, the wine has garnered international acclaim, evidenced by its numerous awards.
However, the wine's prestige is not solely due to its organic and geographical attributes. The human element — the diligent vine growers, the meticulous winemakers, and the legacy of Georgian scientists and historians — contributes to its uniqueness. The synthesis of nature, tradition, and human endeavor renders Okureshis Usakhelouri not just a wine, but a testament to Georgia's enduring viticultural legacy.
However, the wine's prestige is not solely due to its organic and geographical attributes. The human element — the diligent vine growers, the meticulous winemakers, and the legacy of Georgian scientists and historians — contributes to its uniqueness. The synthesis of nature, tradition, and human endeavor renders Okureshis Usakhelouri not just a wine, but a testament to Georgia's enduring viticultural legacy.
