2023 Ocho 'Why ru Here' Rkatsiteli

The 2023 Ocho “Why Ru Here” Rkatsiteli is a bold, skin-contact Georgian amber wine from Kakheti, crafted using ancient qvevri fermentation with extended maceration on the skins, resulting in a structured, deeply expressive natural wine with no filtration or additions. Made from 100% Rkatsiteli—one of the world’s oldest grape varieties—it shows an intense aromatic profile of dried apricot, orange peel, chamomile, and green walnut, layered with herbal and tea-like notes. On the palate it is medium-bodied but firmly structured, with pronounced tannins, bright acidity, and a savory, slightly earthy character, finishing long with a distinctive grip and subtle spice. Textural and unapologetically traditional, it pairs beautifully with lamb, aged cheeses, roasted vegetables, and walnut-driven dishes, and benefits from a bit of air to fully open and reveal its complexity.