Qvevri in Western Georgia

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 Kvevri, also known as Qvevri in Western Georgia, are large earthenware vessels used for the fermentation, storage, and aging of traditional Georgian wine. These unique vessels resemble large, egg-shaped amphorae without handles and are either buried below ground or set into the floors of large wine cellars. Let’s explore the distinguishing features of Kvevris from different regions of Georgia:

  1. Guria:
    • Gurian Kvevri, made in the Guria region, has a special shape that sets it apart. Its external surface is curved with circles and lines, often showing scratches in between.
    • The opening of Gurian Kvevri is comparably thin, with curved decor around it. However, it lacks a hallmark.
  1. Samegrelo (Megrelian Kvevri):
    • Megrelian Kvevri stands out visually due to its clay color and content.
    • The external surface often features two or more curved lines, sometimes flattened and covered with scratches.
    • Megrelian Kvevri has a distinct and nice toe, and its opening is thin. Hallmarks are mostly absent.
  1. Imereti:
    • Imeretian Kvevris has a distinguished opening profile, which is rare in other Kvevris.
    • This shape may have been influenced by the transfer of Kvevris between regions or the presence of temporary clay makers.
    • Imeretian Kvevri is known for its clay visual and content, and it features a hallmark on the opening.
  1. Tskhavati (Ksani Gorge):
    • Tskhavatian Kvevri, found in the village of Tskhavati, Akhalgory Municipality, is quite different.
    • These Kvevris are always painted with red terra sigillata.
    • Tskhavatian Kvevris have extremely thin walls, making them very light. A single person can lift a 100-150 liter Kvevri with one hand.
    • Kvevri making in Tskhavati is no longer practiced, and these Kvevris do not bear hallmarks.

In Georgia, Kvevris plays a crucial role in winemaking, preserving ancient traditions, and contributing to the unique character of Georgian wines. 🍷.

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