Author's Wine Tour of Georgia "Tamada from Vani"

Introducing the "Tamada from Vani" Wine Tour, a Unique Experience!

While Kakheti with its renowned Alazani Valley is considered Georgia's main wine region, wine production is scattered throughout the country, offering a diverse range of flavors and traditions.

Did you know that the famous Kvanchkara wine originates from Racha-Lechkhumi? Or that Tetra and Tsolikauri come from the same region? Have you ever tasted the exquisite Atenuri wine from Shida-Kartli or the Meskhetian wine from the enchanting Samtskhe-Javakheti? How about the distinct Imeretian wines or the delightful Isabella wine from Samegrelo?

Each region in Georgia boasts its own unique, albeit lesser-known, wine varieties waiting to be discovered. That's why we invite you to embark on a journey of wine exploration! 🍷

Our carefully curated tours not only include visits to esteemed winemakers but also take you on a historical adventure, unveiling the fascinating story of winemaking in Georgia. With a history spanning nearly 3,000 years, Georgia has been recognized by wine powerhouses like France and Italy as the true birthplace of wine.

Imagine immersing yourself in the rich vineyards, meeting passionate winemakers, savoring traditional feasts, and indulging in delightful tastings. It's not just a wine tour; it's an opportunity to connect with centuries-old winemaking traditions and experience the vibrant culture of Georgia.

Tour program:

✅ Day 1: Gamarjobat - Hello!

Upon your arrival at Tbilisi International Airport, our guide will warmly welcome you and accompany you throughout the tour. After settling into your hotel, take some time to relax or explore the vibrant city of Tbilisi, which blends traditional charm with modern attractions. In the evening, the entire group will gather for a fun "dinner - acquaintance" event.

📌 Arrival in Tbilisi, transfer to the hotel, free time, dinner-acquaintance
📌 Participants arriving at Kutaisi airport will have a similar program organized in Kutaisi.

✅ Day 2: Tamada from Vani

An early morning adventure awaits as we venture to Imereti, heading to the ancient city of Vani, where the legendary Argonauts once roamed. Explore the fascinating archaeological museum, marvel at the original Svan Tamada, and rejuvenate in the warm, sulfuric waters of the "Vani baths." Picture yourself immersed in nature, sipping a glass of wine, and feeling pure bliss. Afterward, we'll treat our taste buds to a memorable encounter with Imeretian wines, handcrafted by local winemakers. The specifics? Well, that's a surprise reserved for our esteemed tour guests. Next, we'll journey to Kutaisi, the former capital of Georgian and Abkhaz kingdoms. Immerse yourself in history during a guided city tour before enjoying another delightful rendezvous with Imeretian wines. Finally, it's time to relax and recharge for the adventures ahead.

📌 Surami Pass, Ricoti Gorge, Vani Museum, Vani bath, Bagrati Catedral, Kutaisi, winemakers

✅ Day 3: Nameless - Usakhelauri

Early wake-up, breakfast, and back on the road. Today, we are heading to Racha, also known as the "Georgian Switzerland," with its beautiful mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes. But let's start our day with Gelati Monastery and Academy, where viticulture and winemaking were already taught in the 11th century. This is also the resting place of Georgian kings, including David the Builder. From Gelati, we will visit the breathtaking monastery of Motsameta, offering a stunning view of the deep Tsalka-Tsiklauri canyon, before continuing to Racha. Along the way, we will pass by the abandoned sanatoriums of Tskhaltubo and bid farewell to Imeretian wine and cuisine. Our next stop is the Opitari Waterfall, located on the border of Imereti and Racha, marking the beginning of Racha's wines.

📌 Gelati and Motsameta Monasteries, Ophitara Waterfall, winemakers

✅ Day 4: Leader and Wine

Kvanchkara. Oh, this wine is famous worldwide thanks to the "leader of all nations," Stalin. But few know the region it comes from. Even fewer are familiar with other remarkable wines from Racha: Tvisi, Tetra, and Tsolikauri. And only a handful have had the opportunity to taste the recently revived Usakhelauri wine. All of this awaits us in Racha. But that's not all; there will be fortresses, monasteries, waterfalls, breathtaking views of mountains and valleys, and the beautiful Lajanuri reservoir. This fantastic day will end with a pleasant evening, holding a glass of Kvanchkara in our hands.

📌 Muri Fortress, Alpana waterfall, Sairme Pillars, Khvanchkara, Love waterfall, winemakers

✅ Day 5: Swings and 9 Crosses

Today marks the end of our acquaintance with Racha, but we will still admire the beauty of Racha's fortresses, the Nikortsminda Monastery, the azure waters of Shaori, and the grandeur of the view from the 9 Crosses Mountain. Casting a last glance at hospitable Racha from the Narekala Pass, we will head towards the Surami Pass. After marveling at the illuminated fortress and listening to the legends surrounding it, we will check into a hotel in Surami.

📌 Nikortsminda Cathedral, Shaori reservoir, 9 Cross, Waterfall, Ubisi Monastery, Surami Fortress, winemakers

✅ Day 6: Mystical Wine

Early wake-up, breakfast, and back on the road. After almost a week of our journey, before continuing our exploration of Georgian wines, we need a little detox. We'll speed to Borjomi, home to the legendary mineral water that has been a unique morning salvation for many years, helping us recover from an enjoyable evening. After taking a healing dose from a natural spring, strolling through the park, admiring the beauty of the Borjomi Gorge, and visiting the Green Monastery, we'll head to our first stop, where our acquaintance with Samtskhe-Javakheti wines begins. As always, it won't be just about wine; there will be ancient fortresses guarding the Kura Gorge for centuries, breathtaking nature, and mystical stories from this wild region. And a stunning evening awaits us at the Sagamo and Paravani lakes.

📌 Borjomi, Green Monastery, Rabat Fortress, Khertvisi Fortress, lake Sagamo, winemakers

✅ Day 7: Alaverdi, Tsavatanem

Celebrate the one-week milestone of our tour by witnessing the sunrise at the lake. After savoring a cup of coffee, we'll venture into Kvemo Kartli (Lower Kartli). Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of numerous breathtaking sites: megalithic fortresses, ancient settlements, historic monasteries, waterfalls, and lakes. While time may not allow us to explore each one in depth (providing all the more reason to return), a visit to the Samshvilde fortress is an absolute must. Immerse yourself in its ancient splendor and listen to captivating tales of its history. From there, we'll make our way to Bolnisi, formerly known as Katerinenfeld during its German settlement days (unfortunately, no Riesling here yet). Prepare to indulge in the delights of Bolnisi wines, a new/old chapter in Georgian winemaking. Experience their unique taste, delicate aromas, and endless hospitality. As the day draws to a close, we'll witness a breathtaking sunset at the ancient Chapala fortress before returning to Tbilisi.

📌 Samshvilde Fortress, Paravani lake, Bolnisi, Chapala Castle, winemakers

✅ Day 8: Zedashe - Sacrificial Wine

The morning begins, and at dawn, we are greeted by the Jvari Monastery

"A few years ago,
Where, merging and murmuring,
Embracing like two sisters,
The streams of Aragvi and Kura,
There was a monastery. Behind the mountain
Even now, the pedestrian sees
The columns of ruined gates,
And towers, and the church vault..."
M.Yu. Lermontov, "Mtsyri"

In Georgia, wine and faith are inseparable. Since pre-Christian times, wine has been made in Georgia and offered to their Gods. Today, we will journey through the holy sites of Shida Kartli, marvel at the 6th and 7th-century monasteries, and taste the Kartli wines crafted by daring winemakers who fearlessly experiment while reverently honoring the ancient traditions of winemaking.

📌 Jvari and Samtavro Monasteries, Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, Ateni Sion, Shida Kartli wineries

✅ Day 9: Wine, wine! Wine all around

We begin with a delightful Kakhetian breakfast, a culinary experience that words cannot do justice. As we explore the city of love, Signagi, and traverse its fortress walls, we invite you to savor the moment and relish the flavors. Our day takes us through winding serpentine roads, leading to the renowned wineries of Kakheti. From white to red, and even the exquisite rosé and orange wines, Georgia's diverse wine palette will captivate your senses. Our journey concludes with a visit to the palace of Irakli II and the Historical Museum, where we bid the day farewell with a final sip of wine before retiring to our accommodations in Kakheti.

📌 Signagi, Telavi, King Irakli II Palace, Kakhetian winemakers

✅ Day 10: Alazani Valley

Day takes us to the enchanting Alazani Valley, where we stroll through the alma mater of Shota Rustaveli - the Academy and Ikalto Monastery. The craftsmanship and dedication of the people of Kakheti shine through as we explore the treasures of the Alazani Valley. While we can't visit every winery, we guide you to the magnificent Alaverdi Cathedral, the Qvevri Museum, and the Nekresi Monastery. Throughout the day, indulge in the captivating flavors of Kakhetian wines, allowing your palate to discover new delights. The evening unveils a grand farewell dinner, a true Kakhetian celebration that will leave you with cherished memories.

📌 Ikalto Monastery and Academy, Qvevri Museum, Alaverdi Cathedral, Nekresi Monastery

✅ Day 11: Nakhvamdis - Goodbye!

On Day 11, we bid farewell to Georgia with fond memories, capturing the essence of our journey through photographs and heartfelt goodbyes. Before heading to the airport, ensure you bring home a piece of Georgia's wine legacy, as customs permit up to 4 bottles of wine per person.

📌 Departure preparations, depending on flight schedules, there may be a city walk, souvenir shopping, or free time. Transfer to the airport.
📌 The program of the last day may differ for participants departing from Kutaisi or Tbilisi airports.

The "Tamada from Vani" Wine Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Georgian wines and their unique regional characteristics. From the historical streets of Tbilisi to the ancient city of Vani, from the picturesque landscapes of Racha and Samtskhe-Javakheti to the renowned wine region of Kakheti, the tour encompasses a diverse range of experiences.

You will have the opportunity to taste traditional wines from different regions, visit wineries and vineyards, and immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Georgia. It's a journey that combines wine, history, nature, and the warm hospitality of the Georgian people.

To join the tour, simply register on the tour's website to receive a detailed program and further information.

❗️Essential Gear:

• Backpack;
• Sturdy, non-slip footwear (preferably hiking boots);
• Windbreaker jacket;
• Warm sweater;
• Raincoat;
• Buff/cap;
• Sunglasses;
• Sunscreen;
• Personal hygiene items;
• Individual first aid kit.

❗️Tour Guidelines:

1. The tour will be led by knowledgeable guides.
2. During the tour, all participants must follow the instructions of the leader to ensure maximum safety, organization, and a comfortable experience for everyone.
3. Arriving at the meeting point under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Participants behaving in this manner will be disqualified at the guide's discretion.
4. Consumption of alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle is not allowed.
5. The use of headphones during the hike is not permitted.
6. Please refrain from littering.
7. Do not pick flowers during the tour.
8. Pets are not allowed on the tour.
9. To maintain a harmonious atmosphere, we avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and football.
10. In case of unforeseen circumstances, the guide reserves the right to modify the tour itinerary.

As you contemplate your travel plans, we invite you to watch our captivating short film showcasing the intriguing world of Sacrificial Wine in Georgia - 🎥 YouTube (Sorry for only subtitles)

❗️The listed price is an average cost for a group of 8 people. The final price will depend on your transportation preferences, additional services, and the group size. A detailed excursion program and service information will be sent to you via email upon registration on our website or placing an order.. 

❗️If you have allergies to specific plants, animals, food products, or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.