Chacha (brandy)

A glass of Kakhetian Chacha.

Chacha (Georgian: ჭაჭა [tʃʼɑtʃʼɑ]) is a Georgian pomace brandy, a clear and strong, which is sometimes called "vine vodka", "grape vodka", or "Georgian vodka/grappa". It is made of grape pomace (grape residue left after making wine). The term chacha is used in Georgia to refer to any type of moonshine made of fruits, though it most commonly refers to grape distillate. It may be also produced from unripe or wild grapes. Other common fruits used are figs, tangerines, oranges, or mulberries.

Originally only a homebrewed drink of Georgian farmers, it is today also produced by professional distillers. One of the most famous chacha products is the Binekhi Estragon, which became distinguished with the silver medal at the 2007 Mundus Vini awards.

Many Georgians claim chacha has medicinal properties and is suggested as a remedy for a number of ailments, including ear blockages and indigestion. Also, it is said to cure stomachaches by applying it to the abdomen.

External links

• "Hvino News" - wine news from Republic of Georgia
• Wines and Spirits of Georgia
• Georgian Chacha (Russian)