Taste Georgia: Private Wine Tour & Cooking Class from TbilisiPrivate Tour

Things to know

What makes this tour special

Georgian cuisine is truly unique, shaped by the country's long history and its position at a crossroads between Europe and Asia. Georgian qvevri winemaking, in particular, is one of the world’s oldest continuous wine cultures, recognised by UNESCO as part of its intangible cultural heritage, and there is no better place to experience it than the famous Kakheti wine region. With the personalised attention of your experienced local guide, this immersive full-day excursion from Tbilisi perfectly blends history, culture, wine and gastronomy. From charming hilltop towns and ancient monasteries to family-run wineries and even a hands-on culinary masterclass, you will discover authentic Kakheti through its landscapes, flavours and stories.

On this full-day private tour, you will:

• Embark on an exciting excursion to Kakheti, Georgia’s most celebrated wine region and the cradle of an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition;
• Spend a delicious day getting acquainted with Georgian food and wine culture;
• Enjoy convenient pick up and drop off from your hotel in Tbilisi and comfortable private transport between sites;
• Stop in the traditional village of Badiauri to taste freshly baked bread and local cheese;
• Visit the serene Bodbe Monastery, one of Georgia’s most important pilgrimage sites;
• Explore the romantic hilltop town of Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love”;
• Enjoy a wine tasting in Sighnaghi overlooking the Alazani Valley;
• Discover the picturesque village of Velistsikhe, home to the historic Nuni’s Winery, a unique 16th-century wine cellar museum showcasing traditional Georgian qvevri winemaking;
• Take part in a hands-on culinary masterclass where you’ll prepare Khachapuri, bake bread in a traditional clay oven and make authentic Georgian Khinkali;
• Indulge in generous tastings of 9 different wines, Brandy and Chacha throughout the day.
  

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome from your expert driver-guide at your hotel. From there, you will leave Tbilisi behind and journey eastward toward Kakheti, a region defined by fertile valleys, vineyard-covered plains and the dramatic backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to Georgia’s ancient winemaking techniques, including the traditional qvevri method, which consists of fermenting and ageing wine in clay vessels buried underground. Your first stop is the charming village of Badiauri, known for its traditional bakeries. Here, you will taste freshly baked Georgian bread straight from the tone (clay oven), paired with locally produced cheese. You’ll witness the centuries-old baking technique in action and experience the warmth of Georgian hospitality.

Your route continues to the peaceful Bodbe Monastery, a significant spiritual and historical site nestled on a hillside overlooking the Alazani Valley. Originally built in the 9th century and later restored, the monastery is dedicated to Saint Nino, the woman who brought Christianity to Georgia in the 4th century. Surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, Bodbe offers a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into Georgia’s past. You will visit the basilica that houses the tomb of Saint Nino, an important pilgrimage destination for locals and visitors alike.

The next stop is the picturesque hilltop enclave of Sighnaghi, one of Georgia’s most beautiful towns. Surrounded by well-preserved defensive walls and watchtowers, Sighnaghi offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Alazani Valley and the snow-capped mountains beyond. As you stroll through its cobblestone streets lined with pastel-coloured houses and wooden balconies, your guide will share stories about the town’s history, architecture and cultural revival. While in Sighnaghi, you’ll enjoy a curated wine tasting featuring locally produced Kakhetian wines, a delectable introduction to the rich diversity of regional grape varieties. You’ll learn about the distinctive characteristics of Georgian amber wines, traditional fermentation methods and the unique terroir of the Alazani Valley. 

You will then make your way to the historic village of Velistsikhe, home to the renowned Nuni’s Winery, a family-run estate that meticulously preserves centuries-old winemaking traditions. You’ll have the opportunity to explore a remarkable 16th-century wine cellar museum, where ancient qvevri, traditional tools and historical artefacts illustrate the evolution of Georgian viticulture. This immersive visit offers a deeper understanding of how wine has shaped Georgian identity for millennia. 

Following the museum visit, you will whet your appetite with a traditional Georgian cooking masterclass. Under the watchful eye of your local hosts, you will prepare Khachapuri (Georgia’s iconic cheese-filled bread), bake bread in a traditional clay oven and learn the art of folding and shaping authentic Georgian khinkali dumplings. This interactive culinary experience allows you to connect with Georgian culture through its most beloved dishes. Throughout your tour, you will taste a wide range of different beverages, including various top-quality wines, traditional Georgian brandy and chacha (a beloved grape spirit). Each tasting is accompanied by explanations of grape varieties, production methods and flavour profiles, offering a comprehensive insight into Kakheti’s winemaking excellence.

After a fulfilling day of cultural discovery, wine tasting and culinary creativity, you can sit back and relax on your scenic drive back to Tbilisi. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or any central location of your preference, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Kakheti’s landscapes, flavours and timeless traditions.

What you'll see

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