We continuously learn of new things. If one is not a oenophile, rkatsiteli is probably a foreign term. Rkatsiteli is a type of white grape originating in Eastern Europe and Georgia. Some describe it as the world’s oldest variety. There is relatively recent history about its planting in the former Soviet Union. However, rkatsiteli is obscure: a spelling checker does not recognize the word.

Its wine is available domestically though. It can be found through a winery created by a Ukrainian émigré, Dr. Konstantin Frank. The winery’s products are reasonably priced. Some are critically acclaimed. Frank’s Rkatsiteli does not have a review available; it has multiple reislings rating in the low 90s.

Soviet times began in 1922 and officially concluded in 1991. Removal of the wall that partitioned East and West Berlin in 1989 was effectively the end. Until then, people in the East had little choice but to remain there.

Prior to 1989, there was an adversarial attitude. After proxy wars, a Red Scare, and other high tension, President Ronald Reagan referred to the USSR as an “Evil empire.” The Soviet Union had its own culture of course, as well as extensive history that we may lack in North America. There no doubt was a communist identity, and belief in Vladimir Lenin’s adaptation of Marxism.

Cultivation of a grape traced to the year 3,000 B.C. is consistent with a cultural identity. If you remember the Soviet Union, or contemplate it, you might do so with a glass of rkatsiteli. Its color is not as pale as sauvignon blanc, or most reisling for that matter. Frank’s is noticeably acidic, so it could age well. Chenin blanc, typically identified with France, is a different white wine that is known for its acidity and aging.

Reisling is sometimes discussed with chenin blanc. Riesling grows the world over, with well-known plantings in Germany’s Rhine region. Both whites can be dry or sweet.

Like chenin blanc, reisling is definitely more popular here than rkatsiteli.