Marbano Mtsvane Qvevri, Kakheti, Georgian Republic

Vibrant amber hues and wild aromatics rise from the 2023 Marbano Mtsvane Qvevri, a wine that channels the ancient energy of Kartli through Marina Bitarishvili’s deeply personal, hands-on winemaking. With each vintage, she brings a quiet confidence and intuitive touch to her qvevri-fermented Mtsvane, crafting an orange wine that is expressive, textural, and irresistibly alive.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Mtsvane
• ABV: 12.5%
• Winemaker: Marina Bitarishvili
• Farming: Organic, natural practices
• Fermentation: Terracotta qvevri (buried), spontaneous fermentation
• Maceration: Full skin-contact, malolactic in qvevri
• Fining/Filtration: None; no added sulfur
• Style: Medium-bodied macerated white (orange wine)

Sensory Description:

This qvevri-aged Mtsvane opens with lifted aromas of dried citrus peel, apricot skin, wild herbs, and gentle tea-like florals. On the palate, it is textural yet refined, medium-bodied with notes of quince, orange oil, chamomile, and subtle spice from extended skin contact. Tannins are delicately woven, offering structure without heaviness, while bright acidity keeps the wine vibrant and clean through a long, softly earthy finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Marina Bitarishvili’s journey into winemaking began beside her husband, renowned natural wine pioneer Iago Bitarishvili. After decades contributing quietly behind the scenes, Marina launched her own label, channeling experience, intuition, and a natural affinity for qvevri craft. Working in Kartli with organically grown grapes and traditional Georgian techniques, she produces small, heartfelt batches rooted in family heritage and the living culture of Georgian wine.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 12–14°C in a white wine or universal stem to appreciate its aromatic complexity and qvevri texture. Excellent with roasted poultry, grilled trout, saffron rice, herb-forward vegetarian dishes, and soft-ripened cheeses. Its gentle tannins and citrus-driven freshness also make it a standout pairing for Middle Eastern mezze or Georgian mtsvadi.

The 2023 Marbano Mtsvane Qvevri is a soulful expression of Georgia’s qvevri tradition, textural, luminous, and crafted with intention. It offers both the accessibility of a well-made natural wine and the depth of a grape and region shaped by centuries of practice.