Kakheti Wine Tour - Explore the Art of Kvevri Winemaking

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ID: GYG937279-1462185
Category:
Country: Georgia

Duration: 10:00 hours


Description

Discover Georgia’s wine heritage with a Kakheti day trip from Tbilisi. Explore Telavi, Alaverdi Monastery, and savor authentic local wines in the birthplace of winemaking.
Stop 1: Telavi - The Historical Heart of Kakheti
Begin your day with a drive from Tbilisi to Kakheti, Georgia's premier wine-producing region. The trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes of vineyards and rolling hills.
Telavi is the first stop on your wine tour. This charming town is the administrative center of Kakheti and boasts a rich history that dates back to the Bronze Age. Telavi played a significant role in Georgian history and culture and was an important political and economic hub in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Stroll through the town's historic streets, visit the 900-year-old Plane Tree, and explore local landmarks such as the Batonis Tsikhe (Fortress of the Baton) and the Erekle II Palace, which provides a glimpse into the life of one of Georgia's most notable kings.

Stop 2: Alaverdi Monastery - A Journey Through Time
Next, head to the Alaverdi Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in Georgia. Founded in the 6th century by Assyrian monk Joseph Alaverdeli, the monastery has been a center of spiritual and cultural life for centuries.
What makes this visit truly unique is the exclusive access granted by Inter Georgia Travel to the Alaverdi wine cellar. Here, you can witness the ancient tradition of Kvevri winemaking, where monks have been producing wine in large clay vessels buried underground since the 11th century. This method, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, creates wines with a distinctive flavor and character that reflect the deep history and traditions of Georgian viticulture.

Stop 3: Wine Tour and Tasting
After exploring the Alaverdi Monastery, embark on a wine tour to discover the region's rich winemaking heritage. Visit a local winery to learn about the Georgian tradition of winemaking, which dates back over 8,000 years. The tour includes a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the wine cellars, and an in-depth look at the Kvevri winemaking process.
Sample a variety of wines, including the robust red Saperavi and the aromatic white Rkatsiteli. The tasting session will provide insights into the unique flavors and qualities of Georgian wines, shaped by the region's diverse terroir and ancient techniques.

Stop 4: Food and Wine Pairing
Enjoy a sumptuous Georgian meal paired with local wines at a one of Local Winery. Georgian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse dishes, perfectly complemented by the region's wines. Savor traditional dishes such as Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread), Khinkali (dumplings), Mtsvadi (grilled meat), and Pkhali (vegetable pâtés). Each dish is thoughtfully paired with a selection of wines to enhance the overall dining experience.

Return to Tbilisi
Conclude your wine tour with a scenic drive back to Tbilisi, reflecting on the day's experiences and the rich cultural heritage of Georgia's winemaking traditions. The journey back offers another opportunity to appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Kakheti.

Highlights

  • Discover the heart of Georgia's winemaking tradition in the Kakheti region
  • Visit the historic town of Telavi and the ancient Alaverdi Monastery
  • Alaverdi wine cellar - where monks have been making Kvevri wines since the XI
  • Learn about the old traditional Kvevri winemaking method
  • Savor the rich flavors of Georgian cuisine and wine

Guiding languages

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Check weather forecast and dress accordingly
Be prepared for walking
Meet me here at Rose Revolution square by the Giant Bicycle monument.
INCLUDED
  • Comfortable Round-Trip Transportation
  • Professional English-Speaking Guide
  • Expert Certified Sommelier
  • All Entrance & Admission Fees
  • Traditional Georgian Lunch
  • Premium Wine Tasting Sessions
  • Exclusive Access to Alaverdi Monastery Wine Cellar
  • Photo & Video Shooting Throughout the Tour
  • Complimentary Bottled Water
  • Modern Air-Conditioned Vehicle
  • Free Wi-Fi On Board
NOT INCLUDED
  • Additional Services which is not mentioned in program

When should I book?

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.


Cancellations

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.