GRW Khvanchkara is a naturally semi-sweet red from the high Racha valley in western Georgia, made from indigenous Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes. Famously the wine Stalin kept on his personal table — now a kosher, mevushal Shabbos wine that carries a millennia-old Georgian tradition.

Mood: Ancient, warming, cozy.

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby with garnet reflections. Nose of black cherry, dark plum, pomegranate and a whisper of woodland herb. The palate is medium-bodied and gently sweet with soft tannins, red and black berry fruit and delicate spice. Finish is warming and clean, with the fruit lingering pleasantly.

Food Pairing

A natural for Shabbos brisket with dried fruit, cholent, or lamb stew. Also lovely at Kiddush with sponge cake, honey cake, and lokshen kugel — anywhere a Kedem-style sweet red would go, but with real Georgian character.