Massandra rare wine goes under the hammer

Massandra rare wine goes under the hammer [Reuters International News Video]
28 November 2007. A rare collection of wine once belonging to Russian Tsar Nicolas II has gone under the hammer at International auction house Bonhams.
The wine comes from the Massandra winery in Crimea which was built in 1897 primarily to produce high quality wine for the Tsar and his family. The Romanov's spent summers at their Palace 'Lavadia' near Yalta. Now the auctioneers Bonhams sold a number of bottles from the collection which were once stored in specially built tunnels under the Crimean mountains.

Richard Harvey, European Head of wine, Bonhams. Massandra at Bonhams 2007

Product 1

Saperavi

Red Dry Wine of Kakhetia, Georgia.

Produced since 1886, made from Saperavi grape variety grown in Kakheti Region., this wine has pleasant and harmonious taste. It is best served at a room temperature with roasted meats, salads and fruit. Alc. 12% Vol

Product 2

Kindzmarauli

Red Semi-Sweet Wine of Kvareli, Georgia.

Produced since 1942, made from Saperavi grape variety grown in Kakheti, Kvareli Regoin. With a scent of ripe berries and a deep purple color, this wine has a velvety taste that is rich and peppery with a touch of sweetness and a lingering finish which balances both fruit and acidity. Perfect with cheese, most desserts and appetizers. Alc. 12% Vol

Product 3

Khvanchkara

Red Semi-Sweet Wine of Racha, Georgia. Produced since 1907, made from Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grape varieties cultivated in Western Georgia – Racha, this wine has a dark ruby color and a strong bouquet. The taste is harmonious and velvety with a raspberry flavor and subtle oak tones. Khvanchkara has strong wine qualities without fortification or sugar added, making it perfect for spicy foods, fresh fruit, cheeses, desserts and cigars. Alc. 11.5% Vol

Product 4

Alazani Valley White

White Semi-Sweet Wine of Kakhetia, Georgia.

Produced since 1977, made from white grape varieties – Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, cultivated in Eastern Georgia, its elegant bouquet brings out an exciting balance of complementing flavors. Moderately sweet and light wine, it is perfect as an aperitif or with light meals. Alc. 12% Vol

Product 5

Alazani Valley Red

Red Semi-Sweet Wine of Kakhetia, Georgia.

Produced since 1977, made from grape varieties – Saperavi, Aleksandrouli, Mujuretuli, Ojaleshi grown in Western and Eastern regions of Georgia. This light bodied, refreshing wine is best served at a room temperature, perfect as an aperitif or with light meals.Alc. 12% Vol