Pheasant's Tears Tavkveri 2018

Pheasant’s Tears is one of Georgia’s most celebrated natural wine producers, founded in 2006 by American painter John Wurdeman and Georgian winemaker Gela Patalishvili. Known for reviving indigenous, rare grape varieties and practicing low-intervention, traditional winemaking, their Tavkveri 2018 is a standout example of a lighter-bodied, expressive Georgian red.

Production Information

• Varietal: 100% Tavkveri (an ancient red grape variety native to Eastern/Central Georgia).

• Region: Kakheti / Kartli region, Georgia.

• Farming: Practicing organic; hand-harvested grapes.

• Winemaking: Fermented with wild yeasts. The grapes undergo gentle crushing and a short skin-contact period (around 1–2 weeks) aiming for a fresh, lighter style.

• Vessel: Fermented and aged in traditional underground terracotta clay vessels known as Qvevri (and/or neutral tanks), allowing the varietal characteristics to shine.

• Additives: Unfiltered, unfined, minimal to no added sulfites.

• ABV: Low alcohol content, typically around 11.5%–12.5%.

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Tavkveri leans into a light, pretty, almost Jura-like red profile with vibrant energy:

• Aroma: Bright and floral with soft notes of hibiscus, wild rose, cranberry, sour cherry, and faint earthy undertones (leather, dried tea leaves, damp soil).

• Palate: Crunchier red fruit flavours—cranberry, red currant, and fresh raspberry—interwoven with hints of white pepper, subtle raw tobacco, and herbal spice.

• Structure & Mouthfeel: Light to medium-bodied with punchy, high acidity and fine-grained, grippy tannins. Its lower ABV makes it crisp, highly refreshing, and exceptionally drinkable.

Serving & Food Pairings

• Serving Temp: Best served with a slight chill—around 12–14°C.

• Aeration: Give it 15–20 minutes to open up in the glass or a carafe to let any reduction or natural volatility to soften.

• Pairings: Pairs beautifully with roasted pork chops, grilled mushrooms, charcuterie, herb-crusted poultry, or traditional Georgian dishes like khachapuri and spiced bean stews (lobio).