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Tsitska—one of the oldest and most noble white grape varieties of Western Georgia, originating from the lush, green region of Imereti. While Eastern Georgia (Kakheti) is famous for its powerful, tannic amber wines, Imereti and its star Tsitska offer a completely different experience: elegance, transparency, and high-toned acidity. In the glass, this white wine unfolds with subtle aromas of yellow apple, pear, wildflowers, and light honey. Due to its ability to retain incredible freshness, this grape is often called the Georgian answer to Riesling. It is the perfect choice for those who value minerality, purity, and a delicate varietal character.
Red dry
Sakartvelo
Tsitska grapes thrive in the humid and cooler climate of Imereti, where they ripen slowly, accumulating complex aromas while maintaining high natural acidity. In Georgia, this grape is used to produce both modern (European) style wines and traditional wines fermented in clay amphorae called Qvevri.
Interestingly, the traditional Imeretian winemaking method differs from the Kakhetian one: here, significantly fewer grape skins and seeds (only about 5–10%) are added to the Qvevri. As a result, Tsitska remains lighter, fresher, and less tannic than other traditional Georgian amber wines.
With its refreshing acidity and medium body, Tsitska is an extremely versatile wine at the table. It pairs perfectly with light appetizers, poultry, grilled trout, or halibut.
It is also the ideal companion for traditional Georgian dishes: vegetable pâtés with walnuts (Pkhali), fresh Sulguni cheese, and chicken stews seasoned generously with fresh herbs. If you are enjoying a Qvevri-made Tsitska, it will also pair beautifully with fattier fish or tender veal.
Compared to the popular Rkatsiteli, Tsitska is lighter, featuring more subtle aromas and higher acidity. It focuses more on elegance and floral lift rather than powerful structure or heavy tannins.
European-style wines are recommended to be drunk young (within 2–3 years) to enjoy their freshness. However, traditionally made Qvevri Tsitska can evolve beautifully in the bottle for 5–7 years, acquiring more complex nutty and honeyed notes.
This wine should be served well-chilled: the classic style at 8–10°C, and the Qvevri-made wine slightly warmer at 10–12°C to allow its texture and complexity to fully shine.
