From Tbilisi: Kakheti Wine Region Tour with 9 Wine Tastings

If you’re considering a day trip from Tbilisi that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and, of course, plenty of wine, the Kakheti Wine Region Tour with 9 tastings might just be your best bet. This excursion, run by Gamarjoba Georgia Tours, promises a comprehensive look at Georgia’s most renowned wine country, packed into about 10 hours of travel and tasting. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to connect with local traditions while indulging in some of the world’s oldest winemaking practices.

We’re especially drawn to two standout features of this tour: the chance to visit a local family winery making wine in traditional Qvevri clay jars, and the visit to Sighnaghi, Georgia’s “City of Love,” offering stunning views and a charming walk through historic streets. Another key plus is the variety of wine tastings—nine in total—plus the opportunity to sample Chacha, Georgia’s potent grape vodka.

The one consideration worth noting is the tour’s length—it’s a full day, with a packed itinerary that involves a good deal of driving and walking. If you’re not a fan of long bus journeys or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit fast. But for most, the depth of experience and the value of tasting multiple wines and visiting iconic sites more than compensate.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventurers eager to experience authentic Georgian culture. If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging day that packs in scenic views, cultural sights, and memorable tastings, this trip should be on your list.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Includes visits to local family wineries practicing traditional wine-making methods.
• Comprehensive Sightseeing: Stops at Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi, offering stunning views and cultural insights.
• Tastings Galore: Total of 9 wine tastings, including both traditional and larger commercial wineries.
• Full-Day Adventure: About 10 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and tasting, with a well-structured itinerary.
• Expert Guides: Highly praised guides bring stories and Georgian culture vividly to life.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, multiple tastings, and entrance fees, making it a solid deal for a full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kakheti Wine Region Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins bright and early at Avlabari Metro Station, where a company representative greets you with a branded flag. From there, it’s about a 70-minute drive to the heart of Georgia’s wine country. The bus is comfortable, though some reviews mention the air conditioning might be a bit underwhelming on hot days. Still, the ride is an excellent way to start settling into the relaxed pace of Georgian life, with guides sharing interesting tidbits along the way.

Badiauri Village: Bread, Cheese, and Local Charm

Your first stop is Badiauri, a small village famous for its traditional bakery and local cheese. We loved the way this experience instantly roots you in Georgian culture—simple, authentic, and delicious. You’ll get to try Georgian bread and cheese—a combo that’s the backbone of many local meals—and most participants agree it’s a delightful way to start tasting Georgian hospitality. There’s also a short guided tour of the village, giving a glimpse into everyday life in rural Kakheti.

One review fondly describes this as “Very well organised and super fun,” highlighting the warm welcome and flavors that make Georgia’s culinary traditions so unique.

Bodbe Monastery: Spiritual and Scenic

Next, the journey takes you to Bodbe Monastery, built at the reputed burial site of Saint Nino, credited with bringing Christianity to Georgia. This site is more than just religious; it offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for photography or reflection. Travelers often remark on the “impressive views” and the spiritual ambiance, making it a memorable stop that combines history, faith, and nature.

The guided tour here provides background on the monastery’s significance, while free time allows visitors to explore or shop for religious souvenirs.

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Sighnaghi: The City of Love

The highlight for many is Sighnaghi, affectionately called “The City of Love” for its romantic charm. Walking through its cobbled streets, you’ll discover colorful houses, vibrant cafes, and scenic views of the Alazani Valley. The town’s city walls, known as “The Great Wall of Georgia,” offer perfect viewpoints for photos.

Participants rave about the walk—it’s leisurely, informative, and filled with surprises—like local shops selling traditional crafts. After the tour, you’ll enjoy a lunch with a view, featuring Georgian dishes that pair beautifully with local wines. Some reviewers mention that the meal is a generous set menu with plenty of food, wine, and good humor.

Visiting a Family Winery: Tradition in a Clay Jar

The heart of the experience lies in visiting a local family winery, where wine is made the ancient way—using Qvevri, traditional clay jars buried underground. Meeting a family that has preserved this craft for generations, you’ll learn about the Qvevri process, which is UNESCO-listed. Sampling three different wines—Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, and Manavi Mtsvane—most visitors find themselves appreciating Georgia’s unique approach to winemaking.

Many reviews describe this as a “highlight,” emphasizing the quality of wines and the warmth of the hosts. One reviewer notes, “Tako’s knowledgeable experience made our trip very informative,” underlining the importance of a good guide when exploring such traditional practices.

The Commercial Winery: KTW

Your final tasting stop is KTW Winery, one of the largest producers in Georgia. Here, you’ll visit the modern winery, see the process, and taste five wines, including Chacha, the grape-based spirit Georgia is renowned for. The scale of this operation contrasts with the family winery, showcasing Georgia’s winemaking diversity.

Travelers mention the well-organized tour and the opportunity to sample a variety of wines, making it a fitting conclusion to a full day. The Chacha tasting adds an extra kick to the experience, and some mention it’s quite potent.

Return and Reflection

After the last tasting, it’s about a 1-hour drive back to Tbilisi, with the guide wrapping up the day with stories and answers to questions. Most reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Gigi, Ellie, and Tako, who make the journey informative and fun.

How to Maximize the Experience

To get the most out of this tour, wear comfortable shoes since there’s some walking involved, especially in Sighnaghi and the villages. Bringing weather-appropriate clothing is wise, as the tour operates in all weather conditions. Bring your curiosity and appetite—there’s plenty of traditional food and wine to enjoy.

It’s also smart to arrive hungry; while lunch is optional and not included in the base price, many find the set menu to be quite generous and a highlight of the day. Budget a few extra GEL for small purchases or snacks along the way.

Price and Value

For the price, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Kakheti’s viticulture, culture, and scenery, with transportation, guided commentary, and multiple tastings included. Several reviewers emphasize the great value, especially considering the variety of wineries and sites visited.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Wine lovers will find this trip a treat, especially with its focus on traditional Georgian wine-making. History and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the visits to Bodbe Monastery and Sighnaghi, while those seeking scenic views and authentic rural experiences will not be disappointed. It’s a full day—ideal for travelers who want to see a lot but are comfortable with a busy schedule.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

If you prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, or have mobility issues, this packed itinerary might feel a bit rushed. Also, those who aren’t keen on bus journeys or long days might want to consider a smaller, more focused experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a certified guide, transportation, one wine tasting at a traditional bakery, entrance to the local family winery with three tastings, entrance to KTW Winery with five tastings, and the wine tastings themselves.

Are meals included?
Lunch is optional and not included in the tour price. It costs around 45 GEL (about 15 USD) and is recommended for a full experience, but you can choose whether to eat.

How many wines will I taste?
You will taste a total of nine wines—three at the family winery and five at KTW, plus the option to try Chacha, Georgia’s grape vodka.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, as the tour involves some walking and alcohol consumption.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must since there’s walking involved. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised, as the tour runs in all weather conditions.

How long does the entire trip last?
Expect about 10 hours, from morning pickup at Avlabari to return in the evening, making it a full but rewarding day.

Final Thoughts

This Kakheti wine region tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Georgian culture, history, and, most importantly, wine. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful, expertly guided day filled with scenic views, authentic traditions, and a generous sampling of Georgia’s famed wines. The combination of visits to both a family-run winery and a large commercial producer provides insight into the country’s diverse wine landscape.

While the day is long and the schedule packed, most travelers find it an enriching experience that balances education with enjoyment. If you’re curious about Georgia’s ancient wine-making traditions and want to see some of the most beautiful parts of Kakheti, this tour is a smart, value-packed choice.

In summary, whether you’re a wine devotee, a history lover, or simply eager to taste your way through Georgia’s stunning eastern region, this tour promises a memorable day. With knowledgeable guides, authentic experiences, and stunning vistas, it’s a vibrant introduction to Georgia’s rich cultural fabric.

You can check availability for your dates here: