Winery Old Mukhrani offers a fascinating blend of ancient Georgian winemaking traditions with modern craftsmanship just outside Mtskheta. For $35 a person, this tour provides a wonderful peek into the heart of Georgia’s wine culture, featuring a visit to the historic village of Mukhrani, where indigenous grape varieties thrive in eco-friendly vineyards. The experience centers around traditional Kvevri wines, spirits like Chacha and Vodka, and expert-led tastings that are both educational and delicious.
What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on authenticity—you get to see both the centuries-old techniques and how they’re still relevant today. The personalized tasting sessions led by knowledgeable guides help you truly appreciate Georgia’s unique wine profile. Also, the chance to explore the vineyard and cellar rounds out the experience with a sense of genuine tradition.
A possible consideration is that the group size minimum of 4 might mean it’s not as flexible for last-minute travelers or solo visitors. However, if you’re traveling with others or can join a group, it’s well worth it. This tour is best suited for wine lovers eager to learn about rare grape varieties, those interested in traditional spirits, or anyone wanting an authentic cultural experience rooted in Georgia’s proud winemaking history.
Key Points
- Authentic Georgian wine: Focus on indigenous grapes and traditional Kvevri fermentation.
- Expert guidance: Led by a sommelier, the tasting and educational component is top-notch.
- Cultural immersion: Visit a historic village and learn about age-old winemaking methods.
- Quality over quantity: Small, eco-friendly vineyards emphasize carefully crafted wines.
- Additional spirits: Sample Chacha and Vodka made from local grapes using time-honored distillation.
- Flexible booking: Reserve now with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Discover Georgia’s Wine Heritage at Old Mukhrani Winery
When you think of Georgia, probably the last thing that comes to mind is wine. But this tiny country is one of the oldest winemaking regions on the planet, with a rich tradition of fermenting grapes in clay vessels called Kvevri. At Old Mukhrani Winery, you get to see this tradition alive and well. Located in the scenic village of Mukhrani, just outside Mtskheta, the winery is a small operation that combines thousands of years of history with a keen eye for modern quality and detail.
For just $35, you’ll enjoy a guided tour that includes an exploration of the vineyards, a walk through the cellar, and tastings of four distinct wines—Kvevri, red, white, and amber—each showcasing different styles of Georgian wine. The tour is led by a professional sommelier who explains the nuances of each variety and the significance of traditional methods. What makes this experience stand out is the emphasis on indigenous grape varieties like Saperavi, Chinuri, and Mukhamtsvane, which are grown in eco-friendly conditions and harvested by hand.
Two particular highlights for us were the vineyard and cellar tours. Seeing the grapes just after harvest, and then the buried clay vessels where the wines ferment and age, provides a visceral connection to Georgia’s winemaking roots. We also loved the personalized tasting masterclass, which makes even novice wine lovers feel like they’re getting an insider’s view.
A small caveat to keep in mind is that the minimum group size of four could make scheduling tricky if you’re traveling solo or in a small group. However, if you can coordinate with friends or join a larger group, you’ll find the price to be very good value for such a rich experience. This tour appeals most to those interested in authenticity over commercialized wine, lovers of natural wines, or anyone eager to learn about how spirits like Chacha and Vodka are crafted locally.
What to Expect from Your Visit to Old Mukhrani
The Location and Setting
The village of Mukhrani offers a peaceful, scenic backdrop for this small-scale winery. It’s not a sprawling tourist complex but a lovingly maintained spot that emphasizes tradition and quality. As you arrive, you’ll notice their modest vineyards, where indigenous grapes are cultivated with care. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a focus on education and appreciation rather than flashy production.
The Tour Itself
Your experience begins with a walk through the vineyards, where your guide will explain the importance of using native grapes and eco-friendly practices. Expect to learn about the harvesting process, which is done by hand, emphasizing sustainability and respect for the land.
Next, you’ll visit the cellar, where the magic of traditional Georgian winemaking happens. Here, the Kvevri—large clay vessels buried underground—are the star. You’ll see the wines fermenting and aging, gaining insights into how this ancient method lends a distinct character to Georgian wines, often described as more natural and expressive.
More Great Tours NearbyTasting Experience
The core of the tour is the guided tasting of four wines. Each is served in traditional glasses, and your sommelier will walk you through the unique flavor profiles, typical aroma notes, and the story behind each label. Expect to sample a red wine from Saperavi grapes, a white from Chinuri, and an amber wine—a style that’s naturally oxidized and has gained popularity in recent years.
A dried fruit platter complements the wines, enhancing their flavors and giving you a taste of local snacks. The tasting is designed to be educational but approachable, making it ideal for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
Spirits and Additional Offerings
Beyond wine, “Old Mukhrani” produces Chacha—a traditional Georgian grape spirit akin to grappa—and high-quality Vodka. These are crafted using age-old distillation methods, and sampling them offers another layer of insight into Georgian spirits culture. Some reviews mention the spirit tasting as a highlight, especially for those interested in local distillation techniques.
Extra Touches
Visitors can opt for optional food pairings, such as traditional Georgian dishes, which enhance the tasting experience. The guides are happy to share stories about Georgian hospitality, adding a personal touch to your visit.
Practicalities
The tour lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size and interest levels. It’s recommended to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, since the small group size maximizes the experience. Payment can be made later, providing flexibility if your travel plans change.
Why This Tour Represents Good Value
At $35 per person, the tour offers a deep dive into Georgia’s unique wine culture without breaking the bank. The inclusion of four wines, a vineyard and cellar tour, and expert guidance makes it a very cost-effective way to understand the roots of Georgian winemaking. Plus, the spirits tasting adds extra value for those interested in local distillation traditions.
While it’s not a large production facility, the focus on small-scale, quality-driven winemaking makes this a worthwhile experience. We think it offers authentic storytelling, meaningful tastings, and a genuine connection to the land and culture.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for travelers with a curiosity about authentic local traditions, especially if you’re interested in natural, indigenous wines. It suits those who enjoy small-group experiences, with the chance to ask questions and learn from passionate guides. Wine lovers eager to explore unique grape varieties or spirits enthusiasts wanting to see traditional distillation methods will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for a cultural activity that’s both educational and relaxed.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for non-Georgia speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Georgian. Guides are prepared to accommodate English-speaking visitors, ensuring clear explanations throughout the experience.
Can I book the tour last-minute?
You can reserve in advance, and payment is flexible with a “pay later” option. However, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a vineyard and cellar visit, a tasting of four different wines (Kvevri, red, white, amber), a professional guided masterclass, and a traditional dried fruit platter.
Are spirits like Chacha and Vodka part of the standard tasting?
They are produced by the winery and available for sampling, but the main tour focus is on wine. Spirit tasting can be enjoyed as a part of the experience, adding another dimension to your visit.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Since it involves wine and spirits tastings, it’s generally geared toward adults. Kids might enjoy the outdoor vineyard and the scenic setting, but tastings are for those of legal drinking age.
What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing is best, especially if you plan to walk through vineyards and the cellar area. Shoes should be suitable for uneven surfaces.
Can I do this tour alone?
The minimum group size is four, so if you’re traveling solo, you might need to join with other travelers or find a group to book with.
Is there an option to add Georgian food?
Optional food pairings with traditional Georgian dishes are available, typically enhancing the tasting experience.
In short, Old Mukhrani Winery offers an authentic, affordable, and educational glimpse into Georgia’s vibrant winemaking tradition. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour provides a meaningful connection to the land, history, and culture of Georgia through its indigenous grapes and time-honored spirits. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting a small-group experience that’s both relaxed and informative—perfect for making your trip to Georgia truly memorable.
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