Marani chacha mtsvane

This is quite something! Initially, I was unsure about it, and it might not suit everyone, but it's a captivating experience that I'm enjoying more as I go through the bottle. This is a pomace brandy, known as chacha, originating from Georgia. It's produced from a Georgian grape variety named mtsvane. As far as I know, it's unaged. Perhaps more than anything else I've sampled, the aroma of this changes after resting in the glass for a while. It initially presents a sharp acidity with notes of green grapes, tart apple, lime, and something akin to white vinegar. Whether it's the spirit or my senses adjusting, it seems to evolve into something quite alluring after some time. Green grapes and tart apple remain prominent, but the off-putting vinegary quality is replaced by a remarkable bouquet of more subtle, softer characteristics. It has a creamy texture, a hint of vanilla, and a delightful floral undertone. While it doesn't precisely smell like gardenias, it evokes them due to the substantial "weight" of the scent. It offers a deep, rich sweetness that complements the initial tartness. Once it settles, the aroma is truly special. Sitting with a glass nearby, I sometimes just lift it to smell without taking a sip. The flavor isn't quite as enchanting but is still very pleasant. It begins with citrus and a tingling sensation, almost like a lemon-lime soda. This transitions into green grapes and green apples. (It appears "mtsvane," the grape's name, translates to "new, young, and green" in Georgian, which seems fitting.) The finish is tingly and drying, reminiscent of menthol (though without that flavor), and it persists for a considerable duration. Overall, it has a significant impact. The initial vinegar aroma is off-putting, and the flavor has perhaps a bit too much tingly sourness for my preference, but these are minor issues. It is, however, undeniably young, bold, and sharp. I believe it excels in these qualities, but don't expect a smooth, mellow drink from this. For this reason, while I find it quite remarkable, I can see how others might not agree. Did I mention it's only $20? I would purchase it again even at $30. At $20, it's a fantastic deal. The same producer offers another version made from saperavi, a different Georgian grape, and after trying this mtsvane, the saperavi is certainly on my list to acquire. I've heard chacha can also be crafted from other fruits. I haven't encountered any of those, but if I do, I'll be sure to try them.

Strong grape flavors from aroma to aftertaste. Rough mouthfeel but still smooth through the medium aftertaste.