Wine Tasting Feel the Difference of Qvevri or Classical Wine

A Close Look at the Wine Tasting Experience in Tbilisi: Feel the Difference of Qvevri or Classical Wine

If you’re curious about what makes Georgian wine so special or want to learn how ancient winemaking techniques influence flavor, this tour might just be the ticket. Offered by Discover local wine and food, the Wine Tasting Feel the Difference of Qvevri or Classical Wine takes you through a fascinating comparison of two distinct styles of wine production—traditional Qvevri and modern, European-style methods—right in the heart of Tbilisi. For just $16, this 90-minute session offers a surprisingly rich dive into the world of Georgian wine, perfect for curious travelers eager to expand their palate and deepen their appreciation for local culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to taste two white wines and two reds made from the same grapes but crafted using different techniques provides a clear, flavorful contrast that’s hard to find elsewhere. Second, the knowledge imparted by highly skilled sommeliers helps you talk about wine with confidence, turning a simple tasting into a genuine learning experience. The only potential caveat? If you’re expecting a full-scale wine tour covering vineyards and cellars, this is a tasting session inside a modern wine shop, so it stays focused on the sensory and educational aspects rather than vineyard visits.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to understand Georgian wine beyond just drinking it—those interested in culture, history, or wine education will find it particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for anyone who’s new to wine tasting but eager to learn, as the format is approachable and interactive.

Key Points

• Traditional vs. Modern: Experience the distinct flavors that Qvevri winemaking imparts compared to European methods.
• Educational Focus: Learn to talk about wine confidently—aromas, flavors, color, and evaluation.
• Authentic Georgian Culture: Explore local wine trends and the history of Georgian winemaking.
• Food Pairing: Enjoy traditional Georgian cheeses that complement each wine, enhancing the tasting.
• Small Group: The tour is intimate, capped at 12 participants, fostering interaction and personalized attention.
• Value for Money: For just $16, it offers a deep dive into Georgia’s renowned wine tradition.

Why This Tasting Stands Out in Tbilisi

This tasting isn’t your average wine experience. It’s carefully designed to highlight the influence of production techniques on taste, aroma, and appearance—crucial for truly understanding Georgian wine. We loved the way the session contrasted two white wines made from the same grapes but fermented differently: one in the traditional Qvevri, over 8,000 years old, and one through the classical European method. The difference was striking, with the Qvevri version sporting a richer, more complex aroma, and a deeper hue.

Similarly, the red wines from the Saperavi grape revealed how traditional Georgian methods can produce surprisingly different results compared to modern techniques. One reviewer praised the knowledgeable sommelier, noting, “She is a true professional, well versed in both Georgian traditional winemaking and the European style.” This expertise is what elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a real educational journey.

The tasting includes four wines, each carefully selected to showcase the distinct characteristics of Georgian winemaking. The white wines, made via different methods, allow you to taste the impact of aging in a Qvevri versus modern tanks. The red wines offer insight into Saperavi, Georgia’s flagship grape, which is renowned for its deep color and robust flavor. Plus, the accompanying Georgian cheeses help you appreciate how local flavors intertwine with wine, a core element of Georgian hospitality.

An In-Depth Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting and Setting

You’ll meet at St. Bunny, 31 Griboedov Street, a centrally located spot that’s easy to reach by public transportation. Starting at 6:00 pm, the group size remains small—no more than 12—ensuring a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. The tour is somewhat concise, lasting around 90 minutes, but it packs a lot of value into that time.

What You’ll Taste

The core of the experience centers on four wines:

• Two white wines: one made traditionally in a Qvevri and one using the classical European technique.
• Two red wines: both made from the Saperavi grape, but with different production methods.

The goal is to help you recognize how the method of production influences flavor, aroma, and color. For example, the Qvevri-made wines often have a more earthy, complex profile, with a richer hue, thanks to the natural fermentation process and prolonged aging in clay vessels buried underground. The European-style wines, by contrast, tend to emphasize clarity, fruitiness, and cleaner finishes.

Additional Insights

The sommelier will walk you through the history of Georgian wine, the significance of the different regions, and current local wine trends. You’ll also discuss wine and food pairing rules, which will be useful whether you plan to explore Georgian cuisine more broadly or just want to enhance your future wine experiences.

Authentic Context

We loved the way the guide explained traditional Georgian winemaking techniques like aging in Qvevri, the ring and chacha (a traditional distillate)—these details deepen your appreciation of the craft and its cultural roots. This is not just about tasting but understanding why Georgian wine is unique.

Value and Practicalities

For $16, you get a thoughtfully curated tasting with expert guidance, along with cheese pairings that reinforce the flavors. The modest price makes this a very accessible introduction to Georgian wine, especially considering the depth of information and the personalized atmosphere.

Reviews and Feedback

The sole review on record highlights the professionalism of the sommelier: “I learnt A LOT during this wine tasting with her.” It’s clear that this is a quality-led experience with a focus on education. Considering the small group size and the positive feedback, it’s a good pick for those who enjoy learning while tasting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re interested in Georgia’s wine culture and want to see how tradition influences flavor. It’s suited for beginners and seasoned wine lovers alike who want a structured, educational tasting without a long commitment. If you’re looking for a deeper understanding of wine styles, a taste of local culture, and a chance to talk about wine confidently, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less suited for travelers wanting a full vineyard visit or a large, lively tasting event—think of it more as a personalized class in a cozy setting. Also, if you’re allergic to cheese or prefer extensive food pairing, you might want to supplement this experience with additional local food exploration.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 90 minutes, enough time to taste four wines and absorb a good deal of information without feeling rushed.

Where does the experience start?
The meeting point is St. Bunny, 31 Griboedov Street in Tbilisi, a convenient central location near public transportation.

What is included in the price?
For $16 per person, you get the tasting of four wines (two white, two red), with a focus on traditional versus European production, plus Georgian cheeses to complement the wines.

Is this experience suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
The tour is intimate, with a maximum of 12 travelers, promoting interaction and personalized attention.

Do I need to have prior wine knowledge?
Not at all. The session is designed to be accessible for beginners, with the focus on learning and tasting.

Final Thoughts

This wine tasting experience in Tbilisi offers a meaningful look into Georgia’s centuries-old winemaking traditions combined with modern techniques. It’s a fantastic way to expand your palate, understand cultural nuances, and learn how different methods shape flavor profiles. The expert guidance ensures you’ll leave with knowledge you can share and appreciate long after the session ends.

Whether you’re a wine novice eager to learn, a culture lover wanting to understand local customs, or simply someone who enjoys a good glass of wine with a story, this tasting offers genuine value. It’s a compact, well-organized experience that balances education, tasting, and cultural insight—all for a very reasonable price.

If you’re seeking an authentic, approachable introduction to Georgian wine, with the added bonus of expert guidance and cheese pairings, this tour is definitely worth considering.