Masterclass of the Vice President of the Austrian Company RIEDEL on Winemaking

On July 8, Caucasus International University hosted a masterclass by Shalva Khetsuriani Sommelier School titled “Saperavi Qvevri Glass Experience | The Shape Matters!”. 

The academic and administrative staff, students, and representatives of partner companies participated in the masterclass. The aim of the event was to enhance participants’ understanding of wine taste characteristics and refine their professional tasting skills. 

The masterclass was led by Alexander Zorin, Vice President of the Austrian premium glass company RIEDEL. 

During the masterclass, participants had the opportunity to explore the rich history of the RIEDEL family which is related to innovative development of wine glass design. Emphasis was placed on the impact of glass shape on the aroma and flavor of wine. The participants were introduced to RIEDEL’s specially crafted glasses for Qvevri white wine and Saperavi, developed through years of collaboration with Shalva Khetsuriani Sommelier School. These glasses are specifically designed to enhance the full aromatic and taste spectrum of Georgian wines.

The participants tasted Caucasus International University Winery “Ethno Okami” Qvevri white wine, as well as Saperavi, using the aforementioned glasses, which allowed each participant to experience the influence of the shape of the glass during wine tasting. 

The masterclass was attended by Saba Kitiashvili, the Chief Winemaker of Caucasus International University Winery “Ethno Okami”, the Best Sommelier of Georgia in 2024, who conducted a tasting of “Ethno Okami” wine as an illustration at the event.

The event was held with the support of Shalva Khetsuriani Sommelier School and the Faculty of Viticulture and Enology of Caucasus International University.