Teliani Valley Tsolikouri | 2024

Georgia has ten major wine regions, but most of the country’s production comes from Kakheti, tucked into the far eastern corner. Western Georgia is a completely different world — cooler, wetter, and heavily influenced by the warmth of the Black Sea. Here, thick-skinned grapes like Tsolikouri thrive, because they are less susceptible to mildew and rot. This expression from Teliani Valley is especially compelling because it comes from Lechkhumi, a tiny mountainous region where altitude and a rugged limestone terrain create the perfect recipe for razor fine whites. With just 12% alcohol and vinified entirely in stainless steel, it tastes as if a key lime and a Good Humor toasted almond bar had a baby. ~Allegra Angelo