Terroir Creates Character: What makes Racha’s terroir so special?

Located in north-western Georgia, Racha is one of the country’s most distinctive wine regions, often referred to as Georgia’s hidden viticultural gem. The region’s steep mountain slopes, rich alluvial soils, and cool, humid climate create an environment where indigenous grapes develop unparalleled elegance and complexity.

Georgia is the birthplace of wine, and the country boasts the highest number of indigenous grape varietals in the world after Italy. Wine has been made here for thousands of years, traditionally in qvevri - large clay vessels buried underground, a technique that is now recognized as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

At an altitude of 500-700 meters, our vineyards in Racha enjoy warm days and cool nights, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and retain bright acidity and refined aromatic intensity. The soil, enriched with limestone, clay, and volcanic minerals, adds depth and structure to our wines, giving them their signature freshness and longevity.

Unlike the sun-drenched vineyards of Kakheti, Racha’s high-altitude terroir produces lighter, more elegant red wines, often compared to the finesse of Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. This delicate balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality is what sets Villa Chven’s wines apart.

Our commitment to small-batch winemaking ensures that every bottle reflects the pure expression of Racha character - a wine shaped by nature, crafted by tradition, and shared with the world.