Georgia – A Country with Centuries-Old Winemaking Traditions
Georgia is a country with centuries-old winemaking traditions, known not only for its wines but also for its high-quality brandy. One of the most renowned brands that has brought Georgian brandy global recognition is Askaneli. This company combines years of experience, ancient traditions, and modern production technologies to create beverages that impress with their refined taste and aroma.
The History of the Askaneli Brand
Askaneli Brothers was founded in the late 19th century in the village of Askana, located in Guria, Western Georgia. The Askaneli family had been engaged in winemaking for generations, passing down the secrets of crafting noble beverages. In the 20th century, the brand gained widespread recognition thanks to its exquisite brandies, which quickly became popular not only in Georgia but also beyond its borders.
At the beginning of the 21st century, Askaneli actively expanded its market reach, entering the international scene. Through quality innovations and production modernization, the brand gained popularity in Europe, the USA, and Asia. Askaneli became a symbol of high-quality Georgian brandy, blending classic traditions with modern technologies.
Production Process
Askaneli brandies are made from select Georgian wine materials, undergoing a long journey from fermentation to aging in oak barrels. The main stages of production include:
- Grape Selection: Local grape varieties are used, giving the beverages their unique character.
- Distillation: The wine material is distilled using a classical method to preserve the richness of flavor notes.
- Aging in Barrels: The brandy spirits mature in carefully selected oak barrels, imparting depth and noble flavors.
- Blending and Bottling: The final stage, where master blenders create unique compositions by mixing aged spirits to achieve the perfect balance.
Taste Characteristics and Popular Varieties
Askaneli brandies are known for their smoothness, deep aroma, and long-lasting aftertaste. Depending on the aging period, they have different characteristics:
- Askaneli 3 Stars – A young brandy with a delicate fruity aroma, hints of vanilla, and light oak astringency.
- Askaneli 5 Stars – A more aged version with rich notes of honey, caramel, and spices.
- Askaneli VSOP – A premium brandy with a multi-layered bouquet, featuring nutty, chocolate, and vanilla notes.
- Askaneli XO – An elite, long-aged brandy with exceptional complexity and deep taste.
Rebranding and Brand Development
Over time, Askaneli underwent significant modernization. The company rebranded to align with contemporary market trends while maintaining its authenticity. A new bottle and label design gave the products a more refined appearance, emphasizing their premium status. At the same time, the company expanded its assortment, introducing new categories of beverages.
In addition to classic brandies, Askaneli introduced brandies distinguished by their exceptional smoothness and refined taste. These brandies are crafted using modern technologies, blending traditional methods with innovative approaches to aging and blending.
Popularity and International Recognition
Askaneli has received numerous awards at international competitions, confirming the high quality of its products. The company’s brandies and brandies have been recognized with gold and silver medals at prestigious contests such as the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) and the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The company actively collaborates with leading restaurants and bars worldwide, promoting Georgian culture and traditions. Askaneli is a preferred choice not only among strong beverage enthusiasts but also among professional sommeliers and bartenders.
Pairing Georgian Brandy
Georgian brandy Askaneli is perfect for both strong beverage connoisseurs and culinary experimenters. It can be enjoyed:
- Neat in a snifter glass at 18–20°C.
- With dark chocolate, nuts, and cheeses to enhance its rich taste.
- As a cocktail ingredient with honey, coffee, or citrus flavors.
- With Georgian desserts, such as churchkhela or baklava.
Askaneli brandy embodies Georgia’s winemaking heritage, superior quality, and refined taste. It is an ideal choice for special occasions and for those who appreciate sophisticated aromas and flavors. With continuous development, rebranding, and product expansion, the brand remains one of the leaders in Georgia’s strong beverage market. If you value authentic brandy with a rich history, Askaneli is a true Georgian masterpiece worth discovering.