Lefkadia Valley Wines - a focus on territory, techniques and winemakers After obtaining the Protected Designation of Origin status in 2018, Lefkadia Valley can now finally come into its own as a territorial brand. It is therefore important to highlight the key characteristics of this territory when looking to promote any local brand. We have identified over time, through viticultural successes and failures as well as expert opinion, that several verities and styles are generally characteristic for the Lefkadia Valley PDO. These are a result of a terroir with:1. Three distinct soil types: limestone with a prevalence of sand, marl soils, and limestone with a prevalence of clay. 2. A strong temperature gradient between the seasons3. A high risk of winter frost4. A tendency for warmer, drier summers 5. A humid and windy climate all year round The frost risk has meant that over time grape varieties with a shorter vegetation period and a higher frost resistance have fared better. Very warm, dry summers have meant that over time verities accustomed to hot summers and a scorching sun have produced more balanced wines with a lower alcohol content. The prevalence of strong winds has lowered the risk of infection despite a generally humid climate and clay soils. This has recently permitted a near complete switch to organic farming methods. With these characteristics in mind, the verities best adapted to the Lefkadia Valley PDO are now believed to be: Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Saperavi, Chardonnay, Rkatsateli, Mtsvane and Sauvignon Blanc. For the years less affected by winter frost, additionally we have seen as very successful the Rhone Valley varieties of Marsanne, Viognier and Syrah. Other verities such as Malbec, Pinot Noir and Roussane, are yet under scrutiny despite giving very good results certain vintages. Lefkadia Valley's location on the northern slopes of the Caucasus Mountains also brings into context the winemaking history of the land and its people. Although currently populated by descendants of Moldavians and in the past showing a strong German presence, this territory is certainly within the Caucasian and Black Sea winemaking basin. As such, wineries have existed here since ancient times working in methods most probably resembling Kahketian (mountain Georgian),Imeretian (Coastal Georgian) and Armenian winemaking traditions. That is why a revival of these techniques, as well as an adaptation of ancient methods, is essential for the development of Lefkadia Valley as a global brand. Another defining feature of the current Lefkadia Valley PDO is its close relationship with French winemakers and consultants, who have helped define and shape the viticultural and winemaking techniques of this area. Mr Gilles Rey has been instrumental on helping to analyze the land and defining the verities and clones planted. Mr Patrick Leon has equally had a defining influence in establishing winemaking methods and rating the quality and evolution of different varieties. It is therefore important to note that the experience gained from these notorious consultants is probably the most important feature of the philosophy and winemaking approach in Lefkadia Valley.In 2020 we have strived to streamline our production, working on varietal and blended wines that best define our terroir - a French approach to the Caucasus' territorial challenges. For the global market, we believe the following wines should be of interest