Georgian vodka: history, production, traditions

Georgian Vodka: Chacha – The Soul of Georgia

Georgia is renowned not only for its wine but also for its strong alcoholic beverages, among which Georgian vodka, or chacha, holds a special place. This traditional drink has deep roots in the country’s culture and is produced using unique techniques passed down through generations. Chacha is considered the “soul of Georgia” and is an integral part of national feasts.

History of Georgian Vodka

Chacha is a Georgian distilled alcoholic beverage often compared to Italian grappa or French marc. Its history spans hundreds of years, and it has always been a part of Georgian life. It is believed that chacha was popular among peasants who used the remnants of winemaking to avoid wasting valuable raw materials.

Thanks to its unique properties, chacha quickly became not only a drink for feasts but also a remedy—it was used to treat colds, for rubdowns, and even as a disinfectant. During Soviet times, its production was mainly homemade, but later, the first industrial distilleries emerged, producing chacha officially.

Today, chacha has become a recognizable brand, promoted worldwide as one of the symbols of Georgian culture.

Production Methods

The production of chacha involves several key stages:

• Raw Material Collection – Chacha is made from grape pomace left after winemaking. The best grape varieties for chacha include Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Tsitska, and other indigenous Georgian grapes.
• Fermentation – The pomace is left to ferment naturally for several weeks using wild yeasts.
• Distillation – The fermented pomace is distilled in traditional copper stills. Depending on the desired strength and purity, the drink is distilled once or twice.
• Aging – While classic chacha is consumed young, aged varieties are stored in oak barrels for several years, acquiring unique vanilla and woody notes.
• Filtration and Bottling – After distillation, chacha can be further purified and bottled for commercial sale.

Varieties of Chacha

• Classic Chacha – A traditional drink with 40-70% alcohol content, without additional flavors.
• Aged Chacha – Matured in oak barrels, giving it a smooth texture and rich aroma.
• Fruit Chacha – Made from figs, plums, apples, or other fruits, adding unique flavor nuances.
• Honey Chacha – Sometimes infused with honey, which adds softness and a slightly sweet aftertaste.

Traditions of Consumption

In Georgia, chacha is an essential part of feasts and celebrations. It is served before meals to stimulate appetite or as a final touch to a grand banquet. Georgians believe that real chacha should not only warm the body but also uplift the soul.

The drink is often enjoyed in good company, accompanied by traditional toasts led by a tamada (toastmaster). Chacha is sipped in small portions to fully appreciate its taste and aroma.

Georgian Chacha Brands

Today, many Georgian distilleries produce high-quality chacha. One of the leading manufacturers is Askaneli, offering a wide range of this traditional beverage. Askaneli chacha stands out for its purity, refined aromas, and aging variations. Moreover, the brand actively exports chacha to international markets, promoting Georgian culture.

Modern Production & Export

Chacha is now produced both in households and at large distilleries. It is exported to many countries and is gradually earning its place among elite strong spirits. Well-known brands like Askaneli offer a broad selection of chacha with various aging processes and flavor profiles, allowing everyone to find their perfect match.

Best Pairings for Chacha

Georgian chacha pairs perfectly with national dishes:

• Meat dishes – Shashlik, lamb, and lyulya-kebab.
• Cheeses – Sulguni, Imeretian cheese.
• Appetizers – Pickled vegetables, Georgian spices, and fermented foods.
• Fruits – Grapes, figs, quince.

Georgian vodka, or chacha, is not just an alcoholic beverage but a true symbol of Georgian culture. With its centuries-old history, unique production traditions, and exceptional taste, it stands out as one of the world’s most fascinating and authentic strong spirits. By trying chacha, one can experience the true spirit of Georgia and its deep-rooted traditions.