Kakheti: Wine tour from Tbilisi - Enjoy 6 sorts of wine

Kakheti: Wine Tour from Tbilisi – Enjoy 6 Sorts of Wine

If you’re looking to explore Georgia’s famous wine country without the hassle of planning, this full-day tour offers a fantastic way to do so. We’re talking about a 10-hour journey that includes visits to two major wineries, a walk through the charming town of Sighnaghi, and a taste of local traditions like hot Kakhetian bread and cheese. The tour is priced reasonably, and with a small private group, you’ll find the experience both intimate and informative.

What we particularly loved about this tour are two highlights: first, the chance to savor six different wines in authentic settings—each with its own unique story and flavor—and second, the opportunity to walk along Sighnaghi’s historic city walls, which offer some of the best views in Kakheti. That said, keep in mind that this is a long day, so good walking shoes and an appetite for wine and local food are a must. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences, enjoy wine tastings, or simply want a well-organized introduction to Georgia’s storied winemaking tradition.

Key Points

Authentic Wine Experience: Taste six distinct types of wine, exploring both traditional and European methods.
Cultural Highlights: Walk through Sighnaghi, known as the “City of Love,” and visit Bodbe Monastery.
Local Flavors: Sample hot Kakhetian bread, cheese, and traditional Georgian dishes during your day.
Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy scenic views on the way to Kakheti, including mountain vistas and city walls.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share stories about Georgia’s 8,000-year-old wine history.
Flexibility & Comfort: Transportation, pick-up, and drop-off are included for convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Kakheti Wine Tour from Tbilisi

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Tbilisi

Getting Started: A Comfortable Ride to Kakheti

From the moment we step into the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, it’s clear that transportation is well-organized. The tour starts with a prompt pickup from your Tbilisi accommodation, with a driver-guide who makes travel smooth and informative. The drive to Kakheti offers glimpses of Georgia’s diverse landscape, from urban outskirts to lush vineyards and mountain ranges.

The journey takes approximately an hour to reach the first stop, but the scenery alone makes this worthwhile. As we leave behind the city, the landscape becomes increasingly pastoral, dotted with vineyards, small villages, and terraced hillsides used for grape cultivation—an essential part of Georgia’s identity.

First Stop: Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino

Our first cultural highlight is the Bodbe Monastery, a peaceful spot with a rich religious history. A brief 40-minute visit allows us to walk around the monastery grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and enjoy scenic views over the surrounding countryside. The monastery is a place of pilgrimage, and it’s meaningful to see how spirituality and local tradition blend seamlessly here.

Exploring Sighnaghi: The “City of Love”

Next, we arrive in Sighnaghi, a small, charming town renowned for its well-preserved city walls and towers. We have about 80 minutes to wander the cobblestone streets, take photos, and soak in the views of the Alazani River valley. The guides give us a quick tour, highlighting the town’s history as a defensive fortress and cultural hub.

The walk along the city wall offers some of the best panoramas in Kakheti—rolling hills, vineyards, and the distant Caucasus Mountains. This part of the trip is especially popular among travelers for its picturesque settings and authentic vibe. Plus, there’s ample time to browse local craft shops or enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the cozy cafes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting Stop: Kakhetian Bread and Cheese

On the way to the wineries, we make a short stop at Badiauri for a taste of hot Kakhetian bread baked in traditional stone ovens. The smell alone makes your mouth water, and the bread pairs beautifully with local cheese. We also get a small shot of Chacha, a potent Georgian grape spirit—a tradition that’s as much about hospitality as it is about tradition.

While you're exploring Tbilisi, here are other experiences we've looked into

Visiting the Wineries: Khareba and Kindzmarauli

The heart of the tour is the visit to two large wineries in Kvareli—Khareba Winery and Corporation Kindzmarauli. Both are well-established producers, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s diverse wine styles.

At Khareba, we learn about both traditional (qvevri) and European wine-making methods. The factory tour shows us the fermentation tanks, cellars, and ethnographic corners, deepening our appreciation for Georgia’s long-standing wine traditions. We then taste six different wines, each with its own character—ranging from crisp whites to robust reds and semi-sweet varieties.

Michaela’s review captures this well: “An amazing experience with beautiful spots and a great tour guide!” The knowledgeable guides share stories about the wines and the local customs, making each sip even more meaningful.

Next, at Kindzmarauli, we get another guided tour and taste a selection of their wines. The tasting process here emphasizes the diversity of Georgia’s wine—from semi-sweet reds to more traditional dry varieties. You have the option to pay a small fee for a masterclass making bread or Churchkhela (a traditional sweet), which adds a fun, hands-on element for those interested.

Lunch with a View: Lake Ilia and Kakhetian Cuisine

By this stage, you’ll probably be ready to eat. The tour includes a delicious lunch near Lake Ilia, offering hearty dishes and mountain vistas that set a perfect scene for relaxing after a busy morning. The food is described as amazing, with fresh ingredients and local flavors, making it a great chance to savor authentic Georgian cuisine.

Return to Tbilisi

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and sightseeing, the return trip is a relaxed drive back. The group, often chatting animatedly about wine, history, or scenic views, heads back to the city with plenty of memorable moments.

Overall Value and Practical Tips

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to experience Georgia’s wine-making heritage firsthand without the hassle of organizing separate visits. The price covers transportation, guides, tastings, and key sights, which significantly simplifies planning.

Travelers should note that the tour is a long day, so comfortable shoes, an appetite for local food, and a basic interest in wine are advised. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, as the itinerary involves some walking and tasting activities.

While the included meals and tastings are generous, you might find the optional masterclasses and extra wine tastings in wineries worth a small additional fee if you want to deepen your experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

Travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Kakheti’s wine and culture will find this tour perfect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy guided tours, and want to see some of Georgia’s most scenic spots. If you’re curious about traditional winemaking methods or want to sample a variety of wines in one day, this tour provides a balanced mix of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and delicious food.

FAQ

How long is the tour and what’s the start time?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, with specific start times available based on the day—check availability when booking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable and safe transportation with pick-up and drop-off at your Tbilisi accommodation is part of the package.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for identification, especially if you plan to participate in wine tastings or masterclasses.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included, featuring local dishes near Lake Ilia. However, drinks and additional tastings are optional and may cost extra.

Can I participate in the wine masterclasses?
Yes, optional masterclasses in making bread and Churchkhela are available for a small fee, but they are not included in the main price.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It isn’t recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues due to walking, tasting activities, and the overall long duration.

To sum it up, this Kakheti wine tour from Tbilisi balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and wine tasting in a way that feels genuine and well-organized. It’s a perfect choice for those eager to dive into Georgia’s age-old wine traditions while enjoying stunning landscapes and authentic hospitality. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable day out in Kakheti, this tour delivers a well-rounded, immersive experience that captures the essence of Georgia’s famed wine country.