Racha-Lechkhumi is a small ancient wine-growing region situated in northwestern Georgia comprised of the historical provinces Racha, Lechkumi. The region is traditionally known for light red wines made from Alexandrouli and Saperavi grapes, and semi-sweet wines from the same varietals. The white wines are made from Tsitska, Tsolikouri, Rkatsiteli and Kakhuri Mtsvane. Racha-Lechkhumi is a mountainous region with continental climate with moderately cold winters and hot, dry summers, and it is influenced by the Black Sea which creates precipitation there the clouds rise to pass over the mountains. Most of the vineyards here are grown mostly on the slopes of the River Rioni. Almost all wines from the region a bit sweeter than their counterparts in Western Europe, as a result of the extremely high sugar levels created by the sunny climate. Although the region is one of the smallest, it is very important producing of the most distinguished wines in Georgia.