Kakheti Vineyard Lore and Natural Beauty Expedition

Enjoy the rich winemaking traditions and stunning landscapes of Kakheti, Georgia’s premier viticultural region. This expedition takes you on a captivating journey, from tasting the renowned chacha and wines at a family-owned winery to learning the art of churchkhela-making. Savor the flavors of local honey as you uncover Kakheti’s cultural heritage, guided by the expertise of Temur Ioseliani. Prepare to be swept away by the natural beauty that surrounds you throughout this unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• Explore the renowned winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes of Kakheti, a region celebrated for its cultural and natural beauty.
• Immerse in a hands-on wine and chacha (pomace brandy) tasting experience at a family-owned winery, paired with local honey sampling.
• Discover the traditional art of churchkhela making through a masterclass with skilled artisans.
• Savor the nuanced flavors of authentic Georgian honey varieties, enhancing the culinary highlights of the tour.
• Set out on a 5-hour expedition with a multilingual guide, including transportation and tastings, starting from Tbilisi.

Exploring the Vineyards of Kakheti

What better way to take in Georgia’s rich winemaking heritage than by exploring the renowned vineyards of Kakheti?

This picturesque region, nestled in eastern Georgia, is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of viticulture. Travelers will explore the intricate process of winemaking, from tasting the family’s chacha and wines to learning the art of churchkhela making.

Along the way, they’ll savor the flavors of Georgia’s renowned honey and soak in the natural beauty of the rolling hills and lush landscapes that define this unique wine-producing area.

Tasting the Chacha and Wines of Manavi

The tour begins with a visit to the family-owned winery in Manavi, where travelers partake in a tasting of the region’s renowned chacha and wines.

The group learns about the traditional methods used to produce these local specialties. Visitors sample the fiery chacha, a pomace brandy, as well as a selection of Kakheti’s signature dry red and white wines.

Paired with the tastings, travelers enjoy a delightful honey sampling, gaining insight into the region’s apiculture.

The experience culminates in a hands-on churchkhela-making masterclass, allowing participants to create this classic Georgian confection.

Discovering the Art of Churchkhela Making

After sampling the chacha and wines of the local winery, the group embarks on a hands-on exploration of churchkhela making.

The guide leads them to a mini-factory where skilled artisans demonstrate the traditional technique. Travelers eagerly watch as the artisans:

1. String nuts and fruits onto long threads.

2. Dip the threads into a thick, sweet grape juice.

3. Patiently wait for each coating to dry.

4. Repeat the process to create the iconic Georgian delicacy.

Participants then try their hand at this time-honored craft, learning the nuances that distinguish exceptional churchkhela.

Participants learn the nuances that distinguish exceptional churchkhela while trying their hand at this time-honored Georgian craft.

The group departs with a newfound appreciation for this beloved local delicacy.

Visiting the Mini-Factory in Sighnaghi

Having sampled the delectable chacha and wines at the local winery, the group now eagerly heads to a mini-factory in Sighnaghi.

At the mini-factory, travelers get an up-close look at the traditional Georgian distillation process. They learn how chacha, a potent grape-based spirit, is produced.

The group also indulges in another round of tastings, sampling the distinct flavors of the locally crafted chacha and wines.

The mini-factory visit provides valuable insights into Georgia’s centuries-old winemaking heritage and the intricate techniques used to create its signature alcoholic beverages.

Taking in Georgian Honey Tasting

What could be more delightful than immersing oneself in the flavors of authentic Georgian honey?

As part of the Kakheti Vineyard Lore and Natural Beauty Expedition, travelers are treated to a honey tasting at the family winery in Manavi. They’ll sample:

1. Silky, golden chestnut honey

2. Rich, aromatic acacia honey

3. Robust, earthy forest honey

4. Bright, floral meadow honey

The tasting allows guests to appreciate the nuanced flavors and textures of these pure, locally-sourced honeys.

The nuanced flavors and textures of pure, locally-sourced honeys are appreciated through this sensory tasting experience.

It’s a sensory experience that perfectly complements the other culinary highlights of the tour, transporting visitors deeper into Georgia’s gastronomic heritage.

Guided Tour With Temur Ioseliani

Temur Ioseliani, an exceptionally knowledgeable guide, leads the Kakheti Vineyard Lore and Natural Beauty Expedition. Speaking English and Russian fluently, he shares captivating tales of Georgia’s winemaking history and culture.

Travelers gain insider knowledge about the production of chacha, a traditional Georgian pomace brandy, as well as the art of churchkhela-making during the tour. Ioseliani’s expertise and engaging presentation style create an immersive experience, allowing participants to fully appreciate the region’s natural beauty and time-honored gastronomic traditions.

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of Kakheti’s renowned vineyards and charming villages.

Experiencing the Natural Beauty of the Region

As travelers embark on the Kakheti Vineyard Expedition, they’re immersed in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. The rolling hills, dotted with verdant vineyards, create a picturesque landscape.

The tour includes:

1. Panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains, whose snow-capped peaks seem to touch the sky.

2. Strolls through charming villages, where time appears to stand still.

3. Visits to historic churches and monasteries, offering a glimpse into Georgia’s rich cultural heritage.

4. Opportunities to savor the region’s renowned wines and traditional delicacies, enhancing the immersive experience.

The Kakheti Vineyard Expedition offers a harmonious blend of natural wonders and cultural discoveries, leaving a lasting impression on all who explore this captivating corner of Georgia.

Logistics and Meeting Information

Participants for the Kakheti Vineyard Expedition meet at 21 Abano St, Tbilisi, where they’ll find a white bus waiting at 17 Abano Street, in front of the sulfur baths near Cafe Canape.

The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers and lasts 5 hours. Included in the $23 per person price are an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, tastings of chacha, wine, honey, and a churchkhela making masterclass.

The multilingual guide, Temur Ioseliani, provides English and Russian commentary. The tour returns to the initial meeting point.

Advance booking is required, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.