Rkatsiteli is an old Georgian grape variety that was once one of the most widespread on the territory of the USSR and remains popular in the Caucasus and Ukraine. This variety belongs to the eco-geographical group of Black Sea basin grapes and is characterized by large, round or oval berries of golden-yellow color with bronze spots, sometimes with a pinkish tint. The berry skin is thin and tough, the flesh juicy with a pleasant, distinctive flavor, and each berry usually contains three seeds. Bunches are of medium size, cylindrical-conical in shape, medium density, with a weight of about 155-170 grams. The grape leaves are large, round, with a characteristic pubescence and complex shapes of lobes and teeth.
The Rkatsiteli variety belongs to late-ripening technical varieties, reaching technical maturity after approximately 160 days with a sum of active temperatures around 2950-3000°C. The grape is distinguished by high sugar content in the berries (up to 18-23%), making it ideal for producing high-quality dry white wines, semi-sweet wines, grape juices, and brandy materials. Wines made from Rkatsiteli have a light straw or golden color and a fresh, balanced bouquet with citrus, floral, and spicy notes, and in the aftertaste reveal aromas of green apple, white peach, and honey. Due to these qualities, wines from Rkatsiteli are often compared with well-known European varieties such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
Rkatsiteli vines are characterized by vigorous growth and good winter hardiness, allowing cultivation in open ground without covering in southern regions. The cane matures well, and rootstocks easily take root. Yield may be unstable and depends on weather conditions during fruit formation, so it is recommended to apply long pruning with a reserve of vegetative buds to regulate yield. The variety has moderate resistance to mildew, low resistance to oidium, and increased susceptibility to gray rot, requiring comprehensive protective measures. Rkatsiteli is a hallmark of the Kakheti wine region in Georgia and is widely used for producing various types of wines and brandies.
