Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour

Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour: A Deep Dive into Georgia’s Vineyard Heritage

Imagine spending a day exploring Georgia’s legendary vineyards, ancient fortresses, and underground wine cellars—all while sampling some of the world’s most unique wines. For about 9 hours, we found ourselves immersed in the heart of Kvemo Kartli, with knowledgeable guides leading us expertly through the scenic Kakheti region, Georgia’s premier wine-producing land. The tour costs vary depending on tasting options, but what truly makes it valuable is the chance to taste traditional qvevri wines, walk through historic sites, and get a real sense of Georgian culture.

What really charmed us was the chance to visit a family-run farm where we tasted wines directly from the terracotta vessels, and the visit to the Kvareli wine tunnels—an underground labyrinth that’s more than 800 meters long, used to store and age wine in the coolest, most natural environment. The other highlight was the Gremi Fortress, perched dramatically in the landscape, offering sublime views and a vivid snapshot of Georgia’s historical past.

The only thing to consider is that wine tasting costs are usually additional—ranging from EUR 5 to 20—so budget accordingly if you want to sample extensively. This tour is perfect for those who love authentic cultural experiences, wine enthusiasts eager to learn about traditional production methods, and travelers looking to combine scenic views with immersive tasting adventures. If you enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavors, this full-day trip will satisfy all those cravings.

Key Points

• Authentic Wine Tasting: Directly from qvevri at a local farm, offering a genuine taste of Georgia’s wine traditions.
• Historical Sites: Visiting Gremi Fortress provides a stunning backdrop and a glimpse into Georgian history.
• Underground Cellars: The wine tunnels in Kvareli are a unique feature, offering a cool, atmospheric environment for wine storage and tasting.
• Scenic Landscapes: From the Alazani Valley to Greater Caucasus views, the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.
• Local Culture: Visiting a local farming family and Telavi market gives you a taste of everyday life and fresh produce.
• Flexible Options: You can choose optional visits to Prince Chavchavadze Palace or Château Schuchmann, enhancing your experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour

An Introduction to Georgia’s Wine Heritage in Kakheti

We start early, leaving Tbilisi for Kakheti, the crown jewel of Georgia’s wine country. Just over 120 kilometers east, the landscape begins to shift from urban sprawl to lush vineyards and rolling hills. The drive itself is relaxing, and your guide, whether it’s a friendly local or a seasoned professional, sets the tone for a day full of discoveries.

The first stop is a family-owned farm where we immediately felt the warmth of local hospitality. Here, the highlight is tasting wine directly from qvevri, traditional terracotta vessels buried underground, a practice that dates back thousands of years. The guide explains how this method preserves the wine’s natural flavors and keeps it cool without modern cooling systems, which is one reason Georgian wines are so distinctive.

We sampled four different homemade white and red wines, alongside chacha, the potent Georgian grappa. The personal touch at this farm was memorable—the hosts shared stories about their family traditions, making the tasting more than just about flavor. It’s about connecting with Georgia’s living culture of wine making.

Visiting Gremi Fortress: A Step Back in Time

Next, the tour takes us northward and upward toward the Gremi Fortress, built in the 16th century. The fortress’s tall bell tower and high walls are striking, especially against the backdrop of the Caucasus mountains. The site is well-preserved, and the panoramic views of the Alazani Valley are breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot for photos and imagining what life was like centuries ago.

According to reviews, visitors are often captivated by the scenery here. One traveler noted, “The views of Gremi Fortress are unforgettable, and it’s a fascinating glimpse into Georgia’s past.” For history buffs or those who love dramatic landscapes, this stop offers both.

Kvareli and the Underground Wine Tunnels

The journey continues into the small town of Kvareli, famous for its extensive underground wine tunnels. These tunnels stretch over 800 meters, carved beneath the Greater Caucasus mountains. The cool temperature and natural humidity create an ideal environment for aging and storing wine—a tradition that Georgia has perfected over millennia.

We took an elevator down into the tunnels and entered a different world. The dim, cool corridors are lined with countless barrels and bottles. Here, we tasted two or more types of Khareba wines, variety that kept our palate intrigued. The experience of tasting wine in such a historic, atmospheric setting was a highlight, and many reviews touched on how special this part of the tour is.

Above ground, the restaurant offers views across the lush Alazani Valley, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery while enjoying a glass of wine. The combination of history, landscape, and flavor makes this a memorable experience.

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Optional Stops: Palaces and Château Schuchmann

On the return drive, you have the option to visit Prince Chavchavadze’s Palace, a Georgian aristocrat’s residence from the 19th century, complete with a beautiful French-style park. Alternatively, you could visit Château Schuchmann in Kisiskhevi, a newer estate known for its excellent wines and modern vineyards.

One review praised the personal attention and flexibility, noting, “They saved the best—Shumi estate—until last, with great wines and a lovely welcome.” This flexibility allows you to tailor the trip to your interests, whether you prefer history, wine, or scenic views.

Fresh Produce at Telavi Market

The tour concludes with a visit to the Telavi market, an authentic local hub where vendors sell fruits, vegetables, and more. You’ll find apples, peaches, grapes, pomegranates, tomatoes, and cucumbers, offering a taste of Georgia’s abundant produce. It’s a lively, colorful end to your day, perfect for picking up souvenirs or snacks.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a qualified guide, and comfortable transportation. The price covers these essentials, but note that wine tasting costs are extra, typically EUR 5-20 per tasting.

We appreciated the personal attention—a reviewer mentioned, “Within 30 minutes, we received a call from the local agent checking how everything was going,” which shows their commitment to customer service. The tour is conducted as a private group, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits those who love authentic cultural insights and wine tasting. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see historic sites, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and learn about traditional Georgian wine-making methods. The flexibility to choose optional visits makes it adaptable for different interests.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, the underground tunnels and family-run tastings will resonate. History buffs will enjoy Gremi Fortress, and those craving a taste of local life will appreciate the market visit. It’s also perfect for a day trip from Tbilisi if you want a mix of scenic beauty and cultural depth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
Most tours last around 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on your pick-up time.

Are hotel pick-ups included?
Yes, the tour provides pick-up and drop-off at your Tbilisi hotel, making it convenient and stress-free.

What is the cost of wine tastings?
Wine tasting costs vary from EUR 5 to 20, depending on how many types you sample and the estate. These are paid separately from the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s great for adults interested in wine and history, children might find some parts less engaging unless they love scenic views and markets.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s walking at sites like Gremi Fortress and the market. A camera and water bottle are also good ideas.

Can I customize my experience?
Yes, optional stops like Prince Chavchavadze Palace and Château Schuchmann allow some flexibility. You can also ask your guide about additional options.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of opportunities to purchase snacks or enjoy local dishes during the stops.

How many people are in the group?
It’s a private tour, so you’ll be with your own group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in planning your trip.

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Georgian Wine Tasting Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and authentic wine experiences. The visits to Gremi Fortress, the underground wine tunnels, and a family farm create a rich tapestry of Georgian heritage, all wrapped in scenic beauty. The knowledgeable guides and flexible options make it easy to tailor the day to your interests.

Travelers who crave deep culture combined with scenic landscapes will find this tour particularly rewarding. The chance to taste traditional wines in their original settings is a rare treat, and the overall value exceeds expectations when you consider the combination of sites, stories, and flavors.

If you’re visiting Georgia and want a full, authentic, and memorable introduction to its wine-making traditions, this tour is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or just seeking a deeper connection to Georgia’s vibrant culture, you’ll come away with both knowledge and delicious memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: