Ocho Why Ru Here? Rkatsiteli 2022

Ocho is a natural wine project based in Georgia, the cradle of winemaking, with a history spanning over 8,000 years. Established in 2012, Ocho is the collaborative effort of a group of passionate wine enthusiasts and artisans dedicated to reviving traditional Georgian winemaking practices while embracing sustainable, organic viticulture.

Ocho's name symbolizes their ethos: a deep connection to the land, heritage, and community. The winery focuses on organic farming, ensuring their grapes are free from synthetic chemicals, and adheres to minimal-intervention winemaking to allow the purest expression of the terroir and native grape varieties.

Georgia, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, is often called the cradle of wine. Archaeological evidence places the origins of winemaking in Georgia over 8,000 years ago, with the earliest traces of cultivated grape pips and qvevri wine vessels discovered in the region. This ancient heritage continues to thrive, making Georgia a vital link to the history and future of viticulture.

The cornerstone of Georgian winemaking is the qvevri method, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage practice. Qvevri are large, egg-shaped clay vessels buried underground for fermentation, aging, and storage. This method is unique in its reliance on spontaneous fermentation sing wild, indigenous yeasts; extended skin contact, producing amber or "orange" wines with rich tannins and aromatic complexity; minimal intervention, allowing the natural expression of the grapes and terroir.

Georgia is divided into 12 official wine regions, each offering unique microclimates and soils that contribute to the diversity of its wines. Key regions include: Kakheti, Kartli, Imereti, Racha-Lechkhumi, Adjara.

Georgia is home to over 500 native grape varieties, many of which are still cultivated. The most iconic include:

• Rkatsiteli: A versatile white grape used for both traditional and modern winemaking.
• Saperavi: A teinturier red grape known for its deep color and aging potential.
• Mtsvane: Aromatic white grape often blended with Rkatsiteli for added complexity.
• Tsolikouri: Popular in western regions, producing bright, acidic white wines.
• Chinuri: Used for sparkling and still wines, with floral and fruity notes.

Wine is deeply intertwined with Georgian culture, symbolizing hospitality, community, and tradition. The supra, or Georgian feast, is a celebrated gathering where wine flows abundantly, often accompanied by traditional songs and toasts led by the tamada (toastmaster). Georgian wines have gained international recognition in recent decades, particularly for their natural and biodynamic practices. Producers have embraced both traditional qvevri methods and modern techniques, catering to diverse palates while preserving their heritage.