When purchasing wine, one of the most common questions is: should I buy draft wine or bottled wine? Both options have their unique advantages and challenges. In this article, we'll examine in detail the positive and negative aspects of draft and bottled wine to help you make the right choice.
Draft Wine - The Traditional Choice
Draft wine enjoys tremendous popularity in Georgia. This is wine stored in large volumes, and the consumer pours the desired quantity themselves.Advantages of Draft Wine
Economical Price The biggest advantage of draft wine is its affordable price. At Wine Store Orbeliani, draft Rkatsiteli starts from 6.50₾ per liter (classic method) and 10₾ (Kakhetian method). Kakhetian Mtsvane 8₾, Kisi Mtsvane 13₾, Khikhvi Qvevri 15₾, Saperavi 14₾, Tsitska Tsolikouri 17₾, and Krakhuna 20₾ per liter. You pay only for the wine itself, not for packaging, labels, or marketing costs. Original Georgian Technology Draft wine made by family winemakers is produced using both traditional Georgian methods (fermented in qvevri) and classic technology. Rkatsiteli, for example, is available in both variants - traditional Kakhetian method (fermented on chacha for 6 months, amber-colored) and classic method (made only from juice, with citrus tones). Freshness and Quality Draft wine from family wineries is often fresher. It's stored in large barrels and qvevris and poured directly before your eyes, guaranteeing freshness. At Wine Store Orbeliani, you can taste any draft wine for free during tasting sessions. Flexibility in Quantity You can purchase exactly the amount you need - 1, 3, or 5 liters. This is ideal for both daily consumption and large events. It's convenient for family gatherings where there are many guests. Authenticity and Tradition Draft Rkatsiteli or Saperavi maintains the authentic taste of Georgian wine and 8,000 years of wine culture. Family winemakers use methods passed down through generations and the unique qvevri fermentation technology, which is inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Environmental Aspect By purchasing draft wine, you reduce glass bottle consumption and contribute to environmental protection. Delivery Service Modern wine shops, such as Orbeliani, offer delivery service (599 224 407), making draft wine purchases even more convenient.Disadvantages of Draft Wine
Storage Challenges Draft wine requires proper storage conditions. After opening, the wine should be stored in a dark, cool place and preferably consumed within a few days. Transportation Difficulties Transporting large quantities of wine can be problematic, especially if you don't have your own containers. Quality Variations Sometimes there may be minor differences in wine quality poured from different barrels, though this risk is minimal at a reliable wine shop. Lack of Presentation Draft wine is not suitable as a gift or for official events where presentation matters.Bottled Wine - Premium Choice
Bottled wine represents a more professional and standardized product with its own special characteristics.Advantages of Bottled Wine
Aging Potential Quality bottled wine can be stored for years and its taste improves over time. This particularly applies to certain varieties of Saperavi and Rkatsiteli. Standardization and Consistency Bottled wine undergoes strict quality control. Each bottle maintains identical taste and aroma, which is important for brand reliability. Convenience and Portability Bottles are easily transportable, suitable for picnics, travel, or taking to guests. Prestige and Gift Option An elegant bottle makes an excellent gift for any occasion. Information on the label adds additional value to the product. Safety and Hygiene A sealed bottle ensures product sterility and is protected from external influences. Tourist Appeal Travelers in Georgia often look for bottled wine to take home as a souvenir. Exclusive Bottles from Family Wineries Bottled wines from small family wineries are often unique. They produce in limited quantities with an individual approach, creating a special and deep flavor.Disadvantages of Bottled Wine
High Price Bottled wine is much more expensive than draft. The price includes packaging, labeling, marketing, and distribution. Fixed Volume Typically, only 0.75L or 1.5L bottles are available, which doesn't always meet demand.How to Make the Right Choice?
Choose draft wine if: - You want economy and consume wine frequently - You appreciate authentic Georgian wine taste and traditional technology - You need large quantities for family consumption or events - You want to try qvevri-fermented wine Choose bottled wine if: - You're looking for a gift option - You want to age wine - You travel frequently and need a portable option - You need standardized quality - You're building a wine collection - You're seeking exclusive products from small family wineriesWine Store Orbeliani - Authentic Georgian Wine House
Wine Store Orbeliani offers both options - quality draft wine and premium bottled wines from family wineries.Our Draft Wine Assortment
White Wines: - Rkatsiteli Classic - 6.50₾/liter (with citrus tones) - Rkatsiteli Kakhetian - 10₾/liter (fermented on chacha, amber-colored) - Kakhetian Mtsvane - 8₾/liter (light, with fruit and floral aromas) - Kisi Mtsvane - 13₾/liter (rose pear and ripe yellow fruit tones) - Khikhvi Qvevri - 15₾/liter (traditional qvevri-made, with tannin aroma) - Tsitska Tsolikouri - 17₾/liter (meadow flowers and citrus aroma) - Krakhuna - 20₾/liter (elegant, complex aroma) Red Wine: - Saperavi - 14₾/liter (berry fruit tones, balanced) Semi-Sweet: - White Semi-Sweet (Rkatsiteli) - 11.5% alcohol - Red Semi-Sweet (Saperavi) - 11% alcoholWhy Wine Store Orbeliani?
- Free tasting - everyone can taste our wines before purchase - Direct from family wineries - authentic Georgian taste - Both options in one place - draft and bottled wine - Delivery service - throughout Tbilisi (599 224 407) - 8,000-year wine culture - Georgia is the cradle of wine - Expert staff - will help you chooseConclusion
Both draft and bottled wine have their place. Draft wine is ideal for economical and authentic daily consumption, especially if you appreciate traditional Georgian wine technology and the unique qvevri fermentation method. Bottled wine is excellent for special occasions, gifts, and collecting exclusive products from family wineries. At Wine Store Orbeliani, choosing becomes easier - our experienced staff will help you find exactly what suits your needs and budget. Visit us and discover Georgian wine diversity! ---Contact Information
Wine Store Orbeliani 📍 Address: 16 Anton Purtseladze Street, Orbeliani Square, Tbilisi 📞 Phone: +995 599 224 407 🌐 Website: winestoreorbeliani.ge 🚚 Delivery service availableBook Wine Tasting
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