Full Day Private Wine Tour in Kakheti Region with Lunch and 3 Wine Tastings

Full Day Private Wine Tour in Kakheti Region with Lunch and 3 Wine Tastings

Starting at $185 per person, this 10-hour private journey from Tbilisi offers a deep dive into Georgia’s famous wine traditions. Led by knowledgeable guides like Kacha and Tsotne, you’ll explore multiple wineries, enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch at a family-owned vineyard, and take in breathtaking scenery of the Caucasus Mountains. The tour promises a combination of hands-on wine tasting, cultural insights, and authentic local hospitality.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances educational visits—like learning how wine is made in clay vessels—with genuine moments of connection, such as enjoying home-cooked food in a village setting. Plus, the tour’s reviews highlight the quality of guides and the diversity of wines, making it clear this isn’t just a sightseeing trip but a real taste of Georgian culture.

One consideration might be the full day’s length, which could be tiring for some. The itinerary involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.

This tour is perfect for wine lovers, culture seekers, and those eager to experience Georgia’s warm hospitality firsthand. Whether you’re interested in organic wines, traditional winemaking, or simply want a carefully curated day out, it offers a rich, authentic experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Explores traditional Georgian wine-making methods, including clay vessel (Qvevri) techniques.
• Variety of Wineries: Includes visits to boutique organic wineries and a large underground tunnel winery.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Kakheti’s wine traditions, local food, and Georgian hospitality from guides and hosts.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy views of the Alazani Valley, Caucasus Mountains, and picturesque villages.
• Delicious Food: Traditional home-style Georgian lunch with locally produced ingredients and wine.
• High Ratings: Consistently praised for knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and excellent value.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This thoughtfully arranged full-day tour begins in the early morning with hotel pickup in Tbilisi, making the journey hassle-free. You’ll visit a small village called Badiauri where you’re treated to fresh bread (Shoti) straight from the bakery, paired with home-made cheese. It’s a simple but delicious introduction that highlights Georgia’s humble, hearty food traditions. As one reviewer, Dwain, put it, “Bread, wine, & cheese—what more could you want!” This early stop sets a relaxed tone and gives you a taste of local hospitality.

Next, the tour continues to Sighnaghi, known as Georgia’s “City of Love,” with its narrow cobblestone streets and breathtaking views. Here, you’ll visit Okro’s Boutique Winery, a standout for its organic and natural wines. You’ll learn from the owner how the wines are crafted in accordance with Georgia’s ancient traditions, and you’ll taste three distinct wine varieties plus Chacha, Georgia’s national grape vodka. The terrace views of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains provide a picture-perfect backdrop, and several reviews mention how much guests appreciated the personal, informative tour of the winery’s marani (cellar).

The third stop is a local family-owned vineyard in Velistiskhe, where the host, Vaxo Oqruashvili, will take you around his vineyard, garden, and wine cellar. Here, you’ll experience a home-style Georgian lunch with products made by the family or neighbors, emphasizing real local hospitality. Expect generous wine pours paired with delicious dishes, and as one guest put it, “home-cooked meal that felt very warm and welcoming.” This is a highlight for many, providing an authentic taste of Kakheti’s countryside.

Post-lunch, the journey takes you underground to Tunnel Winery Khareba, an extraordinary location carved into former Soviet tunnels. You’ll explore 4.1 kilometers of underground wine storage, where traditional Qvevri wines are aged in clay vessels buried in the earth. Here, you can partake in a masterclass making Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian dessert of grape juice and walnuts. This stop combines spectacular scenery with hands-on learning, and the reviews frequently praise the unique ambiance and high-quality wines.

Finally, on the way back to Tbilisi, you’ll enjoy a short stop at Gombori Pass, at around 1,600 meters altitude, weather permitting. The panoramic views of the mountains and valleys are the perfect way to conclude your day, and some guests share how memorable the scenery is, especially if the weather cooperates.

What We Love About the Experience

• The diverse winery visits show a spectrum of Georgian wine-making—from tiny family operations to large underground tunnels. This variety offers insights into local traditions and modern organic practices.
• The personal touch in the form of home-cooked lunches and guided tours makes this feel less like a commercialized tour and more like a local friend sharing their world.
• The guides’ knowledge is frequently praised; reviewers mention guides like Kakha and Tsotne as being entertaining, insightful, and genuinely passionate about Georgia’s wine and culture.

What to Consider

The tour runs for about 10 hours, which can be quite a full day. Expect long drives between stops and some walking through cobblestone streets and wineries. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and want to maximize their wine and cultural experiences in a single day. Also, since the schedule is quite packed, some might find it a bit rushed at certain stops, but this is balanced by the variety and depth of visits.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This private tour is a stellar choice if you’re seeking authentic Georgian wine experiences combined with culture. The reviews consistently mention guides as being well-informed and personable, making the journey enjoyable and educational. The price of $185 is generally seen as a great value considering the full day’s itinerary, including lunch, multiple tastings, and transportation.

Most travelers report that they leave with a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s wine traditions and a collection of memorable moments—from tasting organic wines to sharing a home-cooked meal in a village. If you love wine, are curious about local traditions, or simply want an off-the-beaten-path experience with stunning scenery, this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour price?
The $185 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, three wine tastings, visits to multiple wineries, and entrance fees. It also includes bottled water and alcoholic beverages throughout the day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses private transportation, ensuring comfortable and flexible travel throughout the day. The guides are experienced and friendly, making the long drives more enjoyable.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult. Since the focus is on wine and food, younger travelers should be prepared for the full-day experience.

What is the highlight of the tour?
Many guests cite the visit to Okro’s organic winery and the home-style Georgian lunch as the most memorable parts. The underground tunnel winery also receives high praise for its unique ambiance.

Are guides multilingual?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear explanations for international visitors.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through cobblestone streets and winery cellars. Dress in layers, especially if visiting the tunnel winery, which can be cooler underground.

Is this tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Some walking is involved, particularly at the cobblestone streets and winery cellars. Check with the operator if you have specific mobility concerns.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private experience, so there’s some flexibility. You can discuss specific interests with your guide beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private wine tour in Kakheti offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Georgian culture, especially if you’re passionate about wine and local traditions. The carefully curated stops, from boutique wineries to underground tunnels, give you a layered perspective on Georgia’s reputation as the birthplace of wine.

The guides’ deep knowledge and friendly demeanor help create a warm, personal atmosphere that many reviews describe as feeling like visiting friends rather than travelers. The included home-cooked lunch and stunning mountain views elevate the experience, making it more than just a tasting trip.

While it’s a long day, the variety and quality of experiences make it worth considering for anyone wanting to dive into Georgia’s wine scene. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see the countryside, learn from locals, and sample some of the best wines Georgia has to offer. If you want a balanced mix of history, culture, and flavor, this is a fantastic choice.

Additional Recommendations

If your time in Georgia is limited, this tour is a great way to cover a lot of ground in one day. For those who want a more relaxed experience, consider splitting the visits into separate trips. Also, if you’re interested in cooking classes or other Georgian traditions, ask your guide about tailored options.

Remember, booking well in advance (about 25 days) is advisable, as this tour is highly popular. For anyone seeking an immersive, fun, and educational experience with some of Georgia’s most passionate hosts, this full-day Kakheti wine tour delivers on all fronts.

Enjoy your trip to Georgia—where wine, mountains, and warm hospitality come together in perfect harmony.