Kisi is a white wine grape variety of the Georgian Republic. It is in the early stages of a revival from near exinction, and is made both in modern European style and traditional Georgian style using Qvevri (large Georgian clay pots) to make amber colored wines. The variety originated and is almost entirely grown in the Kakheti region. It is considered to be closely related to a number of other local varieties. In terms of general appearance of the vine, and in particular leaf shape, Kisi is very similar to Rkatsiteli. Other characteristics such as the color and aroma of the grapes are more reminiscent of Mtsvani. Consequently Kisi has been suggested as a natural hybrid of these two regional powerhouse varieties.
Story’s Kisi is made utilizing best of two worlds of winemaking, old world (Georgian) and modern (European). First grapes are fermented in Qvevri (Georgian clay pots) and than sealed for up to 6 months with skin. After wine is transferred to French oak barrels for prolonged aging. Best to be enjoyed at the room temperature or chilled.
Cheers! Gaumarjos!
