Full-Day Wine Tour to Kartli From Tbilisi

Exploring the renowned wine region of Kartli from Tbilisi can be a delightful experience. This full-day tour promises a chance to savor locally produced wines, indulge in a traditional Georgian lunch, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the area. With visits to two wineries and the stunning Jvari Monastery, the journey offers an intimate glimpse into the world of Georgian winemaking. Crafted for a small group, the tour ensures a personalized and hassle-free experience.

Key Points

• Explore the Kartli wine region with a full-day tour from Tbilisi, including visits to two traditional wineries for wine tastings.
• Enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch at the second winery and learn about the winemaking process from local vintners.
• Stop at the Jvari Monastery to enjoy the fresh mountain air and panoramic views before returning to Tbilisi.
• The tour includes light refreshments, bottled water, and gratuities for a hassle-free experience.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers for an intimate experience, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Overview

This full-day wine tour from Tbilisi takes travelers on an 8-hour journey through the Kartli wine region.

Guests will visit two traditional wineries, where they can taste locally produced wines and products. A traditional Georgian lunch is included at the second winery.

The tour also includes an exploration of the vineyards and a chance to learn about ancient winemaking techniques using qvevri.

Before returning to Tbilisi, the tour makes a stop at the Jvari Monastery to enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Lunch, wine tastings, refreshments, and bottled water are all included.

What’s Included

The full-day wine tour package includes an array of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will enjoy a traditional lunch at the second winery, as well as locally-prepared wines and products for tastings. Light refreshments and bottled water are provided throughout the day. Gratuities are also included, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, offering a more intimate and personalized experience. Vegetarian options are available upon request, though nut allergies can’t be accommodated.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility for guests.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the full-day wine tour is in front of the Marriott Courtyard Hotel in Tbilisi.

The guide will have a sign that says "Taste Georgia" to help identify the group. The tour ends at the same location as the starting point.

• The tour starts at 9:00 am.

• The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers.

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.

The minimum drinking age is 18 years. Vegetarian options are available if dietary requirements are advised at booking.

Service animals are permitted, and the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Unfortunately, the tour can’t accommodate nut allergies.

The tour has received 5-star ratings on Viator and TripAdvisor, with no ratings below 5 stars.

Visiting the Wineries

Guests commence the wine tour by visiting two traditional wineries nestled in the picturesque Kartli region.

Guests embark on a wine tour, exploring two traditional wineries nestled in the picturesque Kartli region.

At the wineries, they:

• Taste locally produced wines and products, exploring the ancient winemaking techniques using the traditional qvevri vessels.

• Gain insights into the winemaking process from the knowledgeable local vintners.

• Enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients at the second winery.

The visits to the wineries provide a hands-on, immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the rich, centuries-old traditions of Georgian winemaking.

Tasting the Wines

At the two traditional wineries, guests have the opportunity to taste a variety of locally produced wines and products.

They’ll sample different Georgian grape varietals, including Saperavi and Rkatsiteli, which are renowned for their rich, full-bodied flavors.

The winemakers provide insights into the traditional qvevri winemaking process, where the wine ferments and ages in large clay vessels underground.

Guests can also try regional delicacies like churchkhela, a traditional Georgian candy made from grape must and walnuts.

The tasting experience allows visitors to appreciate the unique terroir and centuries-old winemaking traditions of the Kartli region.

Experiencing the Qvevri

After sampling the diverse array of Georgian wines, guests have the chance to enjoy the captivating process of qvevri winemaking.

The tour showcases:

• An up-close view of the large clay vessels, known as qvevri, buried underground and used for fermentation and aging

• An explanation of the ancient, traditional methods that have been passed down for generations

• An opportunity to explore the vineyards and gain insights into the unique terroir that gives these wines their distinctive character

This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for Georgia’s rich winemaking heritage.

Exploring the Jvari Monastery

As the wine tour nears its conclusion, guests have the opportunity to visit the Jvari Monastery, a renowned cultural and historical landmark.

Perched atop a mountain, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the Mtkvari and Aragvi rivers. Visitors can explore the ancient church, admiring its intricate stone carvings and frescoes.

The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas provide a serene and rejuvenating finale to the day’s wine exploration. This stop allows guests to enjoy Georgia’s rich heritage and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds the country’s renowned winemaking region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Purchase Additional Wine During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional wine during the tour. The tour includes wine tasting at the wineries, but you’re welcome to buy extra bottles or other local products to take home with you.

Will There Be Any Free Time to Explore the Local Area?

Yes, the tour allows for free time to explore the local area. The itinerary includes a visit to the Jvari Monastery, where travelers can enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the scenic views.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. It’s best to dress casually and comfortably for a full day of exploring wineries and historic sites.

Can I Take a Nap During the Transportation?

Passengers can take a nap during the transportation portions of the tour. The tour schedule allows for ample time to rest and relax as the vehicle travels between the various sites and wineries visited throughout the day.

Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?

The tour information doesn’t mention any discounts for group bookings. However, it does state the maximum group size is 8 travelers, so larger groups may be able to negotiate a discounted rate directly with the tour operator.