Georgian wine in modern cuisine: new ways for pairings and recipes

Georgia, known as the cradle of wine, has a tradition of wine production that goes back thousands of years. The unique grapes and traditional methods have made Georgian wine an insider tip among wine lovers. In modern cuisine, it is becoming increasingly popular to use this exceptional wine in innovative recipes and as an accompaniment to contemporary dishes. In this blog post, we explore exciting food pairings and recipes that showcase the taste of Georgian wines in creative ways.

The uniqueness of Georgian wines

Georgian wines are characterized by their diversity and complexity. The use of local grapes such as Saperavi , Rkatsiteli and Mtsvane brings distinctive flavors and a unique character to the bottle. Saperavi, a red wine, is known for its deep fruit flavors and tannins, while Rkatsiteli, a white wine, often delights with floral and fruity notes. These differences make Georgian wines ideal partners for various dishes.

Modern Pairing: Georgian Wine and Asian Cuisine

The combination of Georgian wine with Asian cuisine can be surprisingly harmonious. A fresh Rkatsiteli goes great with sushi or sashimi, as its acidity highlights the freshness of the fish. To incorporate this into a recipe, try:

Sushi with Rkatsiteli inspiration

Ingredients:

• 200 g sushi rice
• 300 ml of water
• 4 nori sheets
• Fresh fish (e.g. salmon, tuna)
• avocado
• Cucumber
• wasabi and soy sauce for serving

Preparation:

1. Wash the sushi rice thoroughly and cook it in water until it is done. Allow to cool.
2. Place nori sheets on a bamboo mat and cover with a layer of rice.
3. Cut the fish, avocado and cucumber into strips and place in the middle of the rice.
4. Carefully roll up the roll and cut into pieces.
5. Serve with wasabi and soy sauce and enjoy with a glass of rkatsiteli .

Georgian wine and Mediterranean flavors

Mediterranean cuisine is known for its rich flavors and fresh ingredients. A Saperavi harmonizes perfectly with grilled dishes and hearty meals. The interplay of fruit and tannins in the Saperavi complements the flavors of grilled vegetables and meat. Here is a suitable recipe:

Grilled lamb chops with Saperavi marinade

Ingredients:

• 8 lamb chops
• 200 ml Saperavi
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 lemon, juice
• salt and pepper

Preparation:

1. In a bowl, mix saperavi, garlic, rosemary, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
2. Place the lamb chops in the marinade and leave in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill and grill the chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side until medium-rare.
4. Serve with fresh vegetables and a glass of Saperavi .

Vegetarian cuisine and Georgian wine

Georgian cuisine is rich in vegetarian dishes that pair beautifully with Georgian wines. Try a combination of Mtsvane and a hearty vegetable dish. Mtsvane brings a fresh, fruity note that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.

Baked Eggplant with Walnut Stuffing and Mtsvane

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants
• 200 g walnuts
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate syrup
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• salt and pepper
• 100 ml Mtsvane for serving

Preparation:

1. Halve the eggplants lengthways and scoop out the flesh. Dice the flesh.
2. In a pan, fry onions until golden brown. Add eggplant cubes and continue frying.
3. Roughly chop the walnuts and mix them into the vegetables together with the pomegranate syrup, cumin, salt and pepper.
4. Fill the mixture into the eggplant halves and bake in the oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes.
5. Serve with a glass of Mtsvane .

Georgian Wine in International Cuisine

Georgian wines also work wonderfully in international cuisine. A rkatsiteli can be used as a base for sauces that add a fresh flavor to meat dishes.

Chicken in Rkatsiteli Sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breast fillets
• 200 ml Rkatsiteli
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 100 ml cream
• salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

1. Fry the chicken breast fillets in a pan with a little oil until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
2. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add rkatsiteli and simmer for a few minutes to reduce the alcohol.
4. Add cream and mix well. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for a few minutes.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve with a glass of Rkatsiteli .

desserts and Georgian wine

The sweet side of Georgian wines is also notable. A Saperavi or a sweet dessert wine goes well with chocolatey desserts or fruity cakes.

Chocolate fondant with Saperavi

Ingredients:

• 200 g dark chocolate
• 100 g butter
• 100 g sugar
• 4 eggs
• 50 g flour
• A pinch of salt

Preparation:

1. Melt the chocolate and butter in a water bath. Remove from the heat and allow to cool.
2. Beat eggs and sugar in a bowl until fluffy. Add flour and a pinch of salt and mix well.
3. Fold in the melted chocolate.
4. Pour the mixture into greased molds and bake in the oven at 200°C for about 10-12 minutes.
5. Serve with a glass of Saperavi .

Conclusion

Using Georgian wine in modern cuisine opens up new worlds of flavors and creative pairings. Whether you prefer Asian, Mediterranean or international cuisine, the flavors of Georgian wines can provide a harmonious complement to many dishes. From sushi to grilled meats to delicious desserts - the possibilities are endless. Get inspired and incorporate Georgian wine into your next culinary creation!