Saperavi is a long-established grape variety in Georgia, where it is still of great importance today. In the 17th century it was very widespread in Georgia, and today the vineyard area is less than 4,000 hetars. The name Saperavi refers to the extremely dark and almost pink juice of the berry, because this is where a paradox comes into play. The Saperavi's skin is relatively light and only pale red. The Saperavi was also the inspiration for many natural crosses, such as the Bastardo variety. The grape variety sprouts in the middle segment and ripens late. The Saperavi is very robust; neither winter cold nor summer drought can harm it. However, it needs warm locations to fully ripen, otherwise the wines will be very acidic. The variety is considered to be of quite high quality; the best Saperavi wines have decent ripening and aging potential. It can be developed as a single variety or be part of a cuvée to which it gives strength, color and alcohol. The variety is also suitable for producing semi-dry and sweet wines as well as fortified wines in the port style. The Saperavi has also spread to other countries in the East, which is why there are significant vineyards in Ukraine, Russia, the Republic of Moldova, Azerbaijan and Armenia. A few hectares are productive in Bulgaria. A handful of winemakers have even planted it in Australia, such as Hugh Hamilton in McLaren Vale.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Didi Saperawi, Saperawi Nischwilmari Twala, Saperave Moklemtewana, Saperavi Atcharuli, Saperavi Bejashvilis, Saperaibi, Saperavi Atenis, Saperavi Severni, Saperavi Guriis, Patara Saperawi, Saperavi Mskhvilmartsvala, Saperavi Budeshuriseburi, Saperavi Severny, Scoperawi, Saperavi Severnyi, Saperavi Tetri, Saperawi, Saperawi Budesuri Seburi, Saperawi Didtana Kwaviliani, Saperawi du Nord, Sapervi, Saperawi Martwalmitweni, Sapewi, Sapperawi, Sapiramica Major, Scaperawi, Speravi Medjviskhevis, Spaperavi Panchkha
