Dugladze Napareuli

As the wine that was the inspiration for Turton Wines’ founding, Georgian wine continues to have unrivalled breadth. Widely acknowledged as the origin of wine as we know it, Georgia began production over 8,000 years ago and has sites of ancient winemaking with protected status from UNESCO. Famed for their ancient Qvevri winemaking method and the ability to not only produce superb red, white and orange dry wines, but superb and quintessentially Georgian semi-sweet wines of all types.  

For this wine Dugladze use the Saperavi grape from the Kakheti region where the Napareuli appellation is located. Napareuli is a historical wine village located in the upper part of the Alazani river valley. This dry red wine is named after the village. Napareuli is one of the most famous appellations of Saperavi. Dark ruby in colour with aromas of ripe berry and hints of vanilla and oak. The palate is smooth with ripe dark fruit flavours, a velvety texture and a rich finish. Try with red meat dishes, stew/casserole and mature hard cheese. 

Dugladze Wine Co was founded in 2004 and prides itself on combining traditional Georgian traditions, novelties and loyalty to the family business. They have vineyards across three wine regions: Kakheti overlooking the Alazani River in the Caucus foothills, and Imereti and Kartli nearer to the Black Sea. 

Many Georgian wines source grapes from small family vineyards, so ingrained in culture that they are a strong part of family heritage. There are several wine regions that hold 18 Specific Viticultural Areas held in high regard, with careful monitoring and low yields. The ancient Qvevri method is still in wide use. Qvevri are large clay pots, buried underground to their necks for perfect fermentation and ageing temperature, often with skins and stems for full concentration. This method is a key part of orange wine production.