Abkhazia

Republic of Abkhazia: LLC Wines & Beverages of Abkhazia. LYKHNY Red Semi-sweet Table Wine

Abkhazia is a political entity on the eastern coast of the Black Sea and the south-western flank of the Caucasus, whose status is disputed. It considers itself an independent state (the Republic of Abkhazia). This independent status is recognized by Russia, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Nauru, and also by the similarly disputed states of South Ossetia and Transnistria. Although Georgia regards Abkhazia as part of the territory of Georgia, the reality is that Abkhazia operates as an independent country, with an alignment to Russia. Russia has budgeted approximately US$140M for support to Abkhazia in 2011. The population of Abkhazia is approximately 200,000 people, much reduced after the 2008 war with Georgia.

The wine I have is from a substantial producer in Abkhazia, LLC “Wines & Beverages of Abkhazia”, from grapes grown near Gali in the south of Abkhazia. The labeling is almost entirely in Russian, with just a few words in English. The company has been producing wine since 1967.

Website: http://vinaabkhazii.ru/index.htm (in Russian)

Robert would appreciate any information on wine production in countries and autonomous regions not listed. You may contact Robert here.