WINE & DINE Tour from Kutaisi

Discover the WINE & DINE Tour from Kutaisi — a Taste of Georgia’s Wine Heritage

If you’re visiting Kutaisi and want to go beyond the usual sites, the Wine & Dine Tour offers a delightful glimpse into Georgia’s long-standing wine traditions and culinary culture. Priced at just under $60 per person, this roughly four-hour experience takes you to a cozy family-owned winery in the village of Obcha, where you’ll learn about traditional winemaking, sample a variety of local wines, and sit down to a generous Georgian feast. Led by enthusiastic guides like Giorgi and Lasha, the tour balances education, authentic flavors, and scenic countryside.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see wine production up close — from vineyard to bottle — in a setting that feels like visiting family. The variety of wines, from Tsolikouri to Ojaleshi, showcases Georgia’s diverse grape heritage, and the home-cooked Georgian dishes, prepared by welcoming locals, make this a meal to remember. The small group size ensures personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want to connect more deeply with Georgia’s wine culture.

One thing to keep in mind: Since the tour is centered around a family-run vineyard, it might be less polished than commercial wineries. If you’re expecting a high-end wine tour with modern facilities, this may feel more rustic. But if you’re after authenticity, local charm, and great stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for food and wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to step into a real Georgian home and taste the country’s hospitality firsthand.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a family-owned vineyard in Obcha to see traditional winemaking.
• Variety of Wines: Tasting includes local varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Ojaleshi, and more.
• Cultural Feast: Enjoy a hearty Georgian meal prepared by local family members.
• Scenic Setting: The vineyard and surrounding countryside offer lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Small Group Size: Max 20 travelers for personalized attention and a friendly environment.
• Inclusive Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Kutaisi make logistics simple.

A Deeper Look at the WINE & DINE Tour: What to Expect

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off at 1:00 pm from Budget Georgia’s office on Shota Rustaveli Avenue in Kutaisi, a central and accessible location. The round-trip transfer saves you the hassle of organizing transport, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation options. With a small group—typically no more than 20 people—you’ll feel comfortably engaged without feeling crowded.

The Visit to Baia’s Family Winery

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Baia’s winery in the village of Obcha, located in the Bagdati municipality. Here, your hosts Baia and Gvantsa warmly welcome you into their home. The visit begins with a stroll through their vineyard, just behind the house, where you can admire the lush grapevines and get a sense of local viticulture.

The real magic happens in the wine cellar. You’ll see the traditional methods of winemaking, which are still very much alive today. The hosts produce a variety of local grape varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere, along with Chacha, the potent grape-based spirit. The hosts are eager to share their knowledge and stories, making this more than just a tasting — it’s an education in Georgian wine culture.

The Wine Tasting

After the tour of the vineyard, you’ll move into the wine cellar for a tasting session. Here, you can expect to sample several types of local wines, each with its own unique flavor profile. The hosts take pride in highlighting the diversity of Georgian grapes and how they contribute to the country’s rich wine heritage.

The Georgian Feast

Following the wine, everyone gathers around a big table filled with homemade Georgian dishes. The food is described as delicious and generous, with the host’s mother preparing Imereian specialties — dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and authentic. You might find yourself indulging in piping hot khachapuri (cheese bread), lobio (bean stew), satsivi (walnut sauce), and other local delicacies.

As one reviewer noted, “…there was so much food and wine, we were absolutely stuffed!” The meal feels like a warm family gathering, where you can savor the true flavors and hospitality of Georgia.

The Return Journey

By around 6:00 pm, the tour concludes with a return transfer to Kutaisi. The entire experience is approximately three hours at the winery, with ample time for tasting, conversation, and enjoying the scenery.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The authenticity of visiting a family-run vineyard makes this experience truly special. Unlike larger, commercial wineries, Baia’s is a personal, informal setting where you can see how wine is made traditionally. The diversity of wines allows you to appreciate Georgia’s long-standing viticultural heritage, often called the “cradle of wine” for its ancient origins.

The delicious Georgian food served with the wine elevates the experience — a generous portion of home-style dishes that reflect the country’s warm hospitality. Coupled with scenic views and a small-group atmosphere, you will leave with a deeper understanding of Georgian culture and a belly full of local flavors.

A Few Considerations

While the experience offers a genuine taste of Georgian life, it’s not a high-end wine tour. You might find the facilities rustic, and the focus is more on authenticity than sophistication. Also, the timing is fixed, so if you’re not used to midday starts or short durations, plan accordingly. Still, for many, the value and warmth of the experience outweigh these minor points.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and wine lovers interested in authentic Georgian traditions. It’s also well-suited for curious travelers who enjoy cultural exchanges in informal settings. If you appreciate small-group tours with personal attention, this is an excellent choice. And if you’re craving a story behind the product and a taste of local life, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with about 3 hours at the winery and transportation included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Budget Georgia’s office in Kutaisi and ends back at the same location after the visit.

What is included in the price?
The round-trip transfer, wine tasting, and ** Georgian meal** are included in the $59.41 price.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
While the description mentions a hearty Georgian feast, specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed. It’s best to inquire beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample local wines like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere, as well as Chacha.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible or suitable for service animals?
Service animals are allowed, but accessibility isn’t specified. It’s advisable to confirm with the tour provider if you have special mobility needs.

Final Thoughts

The WINE & DINE Tour from Kutaisi offers a wonderfully authentic window into Georgian wine-making and home-style cuisine. Its strength lies in the personal stories, delicious food, and scenic setting that make you feel like a guest in a local family’s home. It’s a value-packed experience that appeals most to those who want more than just a sip of wine — they want to understand and taste Georgia’s hidden treasures.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, genuine, and delicious outing that highlights local culture, this tour will suit you well. Just be ready for a full belly and a warm welcome — the kind Georgia is famous for.

Note: Always double-check specific details, especially if you have particular dietary needs or mobility concerns. The tour operates on a free cancellation policy if you decide to change your plans at least 24 hours in advance.