Where to Try Chinuri and Tsolikauri in Batumi: A Guide to Light and Mineral Wines at LEVEL

If you are looking for where to try authentic natural wine in Batumi, welcome to the wine list at LEVEL. Georgian wine has long been associated with full-bodied Saperavi or tannic amber wines from qvevri. But Georgia is also about incredible freshness, lightness, and vibrant minerality. A special place here is held by indigenous varieties from the Kartli and Imereti terroirs — Chinuri and Tsolikouri.

What is Chinuri and why you should order it

Chinuri is born in the Kartli region. Its name comes from the word "chinti", meaning "bird's wing" or "silvery-greenish" — exactly the hue this grape has. In the glass, this is pure Georgian wine with notes of wild herbs, mint, green apples, and a slight bitterness on the finish.

In our Batumi wine bar, we serve Chinuri chilled — it is perfectly refreshing in the heat and pairs wonderfully with local snacks. Want to deepen your knowledge? Drop by our regular events and tastings, where sommeliers talk in detail about the philosophy of minimal intervention and biodynamics.

Mineral Tsolikouri and the amber style

Tsolikouri is the king of western Georgia (Imereti). This wine features a recognizable crisp acidity and notes of yellow fruit, quince, and meadow flowers. If you appreciate amber qvevri, pay attention to aged versions of this variety, as well as our hits: Krakhuna amber or Kisi amber.

Such wines are fermented with skins and seeds in clay jars buried in the ground. The result is a complex, textural drink with a rich aroma of dried apricots, nuts, and spices.

What to pair light wines with at LEVEL

Mineral and light indigenous wines require a gastronomic accompaniment that will not overpower their subtle taste. In our kitchen you will find the perfect pairings:

• Delicate nadugi spheres with adjika
• Exquisite risotto with matsoni and truffle
• Fresh Black Sea turbot

After the tasting, you can take a break with a game of billiards and kicker or try signature cocktails if you fancy mixology. And if you want to drink a glass of refreshing Chinuri right by the water, drop by our LEVEL Beach beach bar on the New Boulevard — with live bands, hookahs, and a sunset view.

Drop by the main LEVEL for a glass of chilled Chinuri or Tsolikouri — we are always in touch and ready to pour the best of what the generous Georgian land produces.