Full Day Private Wine Tour in Kakheti Region with Lunch and 3 Wine Tastings

The Full Day Private Wine Tour in Kakheti, priced at $185 per person, offers a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s beloved wine culture. Departing from Tbilisi, this 10-hour journey takes you through scenic villages, historic wineries, and the spectacular Caucasus Mountains. The tour stands out for its personalized experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, and the opportunity to explore three distinct wineries and enjoy a traditional Georgian lunch. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the in-depth learning about Georgian winemaking traditions, especially the use of clay vessels called Qvevris.

While the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and wine tasting. The $185 price point reflects a well-rounded experience, and with nearly 200 reviews rating it perfectly at 5.0/5, it clearly delivers on its promises. The small group size, private transport, and carefully curated stops make it a standout option for wine lovers seeking an immersive day in Georgia.

Key Points

• Private full-day experience with hotel pickup and drop-off included in Tbilisi
• Three wine tastings at renowned wineries, including organic and traditional Qvevri wines
• Visit to Sighnaghi, an ancient town with views of the Caucasus Mountains
• Traditional Georgian lunch at a family-owned winery, with locally produced food
• Stops include a bakery in Badiauri and an underground Khareba winery tunnel
• Highly rated, with 197 reviews and a 5.0/5 rating for overall quality

Exploring the Kakheti Region from Tbilisi

Starting early in the morning, this private tour departs from Tbilisi at 9:30 am, with pickup offered from your hotel or accommodation. The journey takes you eastward into Georgia’s main wine-producing region, renowned for its traditional winemaking techniques. The experience lasts around 10 hours, giving plenty of time to visit several sites, taste a variety of wines, and enjoy a home-style Georgian meal.

The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, with guides providing detailed insights into the region’s history, culture, and wine traditions. The tour operates with COVID-19 safety measures, including guides tested negative, hand sanitizers, and bottled water throughout the day.

Visiting Badiauri: The Bread and Cheese Stop

The tour begins with a short stop in the village of Badiauri, which lasts about 30 minutes. Here, you’ll experience fresh Georgian bread called Shoti, freshly baked in a local bakery. This bread pairs perfectly with home-made cheese, a simple yet flavorful introduction to Georgia’s culinary traditions. This stop is free and offers a genuine taste of local life.

Sighnaghi: The Town of Love and Natural Wines

Next, the tour moves to Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” due to its romantic cobblestone streets and scenic views. Here, visitors stroll through narrow alleys with panoramic vistas of the Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains in the background.

The highlight is the visit to Okro’s Boutique Winery, a leading natural wine producer known for organic wines exported worldwide. The owner explains in detail how traditional Georgian winemaking is done using Qvevris, and guests taste three different wines plus Chacha, a Georgian grape vodka. The terrace offers a chance to savor the views while sampling wines that are 100% organic.

Following the tasting, the tour visits Okros Marani, the wine cellar where the winemaking process takes place. This stop lasts for about an hour and provides a deep dive into Georgian natural wine production.

Traditional Kakhetian Family Lunch in Velistiskhe

The next highlight is a home-cooked lunch at a local family’s home in Velistiskhe village. The winemaker hosts personally, offering a village tour that includes his vineyard, garden, and wine cellar. The lunch features locally produced food, emphasizing authenticity and Georgia’s hospitality.

The lunch lasts about 2 hours, during which wine is always present — a Georgian tradition. The home-made dishes are paired with wines from the family’s own production, giving guests a genuine taste of Kakhetian hospitality.

Tunnel Winery Khareba: Wine in an Underground Fortress

A unique stop is the Khareba winery, located in a 4.1 km underground tunnel that was once a Soviet bomb shelter. This large winery produces both traditional Qvevri wines and European-style wines, showcasing Georgia’s diverse winemaking techniques.

Guests have the chance to sample two types of Qvevri wines while walking through the underground cellar. The tunnel’s cool temperature and historic setting create a memorable wine-tasting atmosphere. The visit also includes an optional masterclass on preparing Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian grape and walnut dessert.

Alternatively, visitors can opt for a visit to the Kindzmarauli Corporation, where they taste five different wines and explore the factory process. This optional additional activity adds more variety to the experience.

Gombori Pass: Scenic Mountain Views

On the return journey, weather permitting, the tour makes a short stop at the Gombori Pass at 1,600 meters above sea level. Here, visitors enjoy spectacular mountain vistas, perfect for photos. This 15-minute stop offers a chance to appreciate Georgia’s mountain landscape, especially clear in good weather. It is not available during winter, but in warmer seasons, it adds a beautiful scenic conclusion to the day.

Logistics and Group Experience

The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour operates with COVID-19 safety measures, such as guides tested negative and hand sanitizers on board. It also features bottled water and alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the day.

The timing starts at 9:30 am and wraps up around 7:30 pm, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The pacing allows travelers to absorb the sights, tastes, and stories comfortably.

Expert Guides and Personal Touches

Based on reviews, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Guides like Kacha, Kakha, and Tsotne are described as entertaining, insightful, and attentive, making the day both informative and fun. Many reviewers highlight the personalized service, with guides sharing local stories and recommendations.

Guests appreciate the generous wine tastings, with some stops offering multiple varieties and home-made products. The lunch at the family house receives special mention for its authenticity and hospitality.

Booking, Price, and Overall Value

With a price of $185, this tour offers excellent value considering the full day of activities, multiple tastings, lunch, and private transportation. The tour is booked on average 25 days in advance, indicating high popularity among visitors.

The free cancellation policy provides flexibility, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, adding peace of mind. The Tourism reviews consistently rate this tour 5.0/5, highlighting consistent quality and satisfaction.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Georgia’s wine-making traditions, particularly the use of clay vessels. It suits those interested in local culture, scenic views, and authentic food experiences. Travelers comfortable with a full-day, active schedule will appreciate the pacing and variety of stops. It also caters well to couples, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized, memorable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Kakheti Wine Day Tour

This full-day private tour in Kakheti showcases Georgia’s rich winemaking culture, combining tastings, cultural stops, and a home-style lunch. The small-group, personalized approach, along with expert guides, ensures a warm, educational experience that appeals to those wanting more than just wine tasting.

While some stops may be more commercial than others, the authenticity of the family lunch and the diversity of wineries, including the underground tunnel winery, make this a well-rounded journey. The $185 cost reflects the quality, depth, and personalized service that travelers receive.

For anyone seeking a comprehensive introduction to Georgian wine traditions in a scenic, friendly setting, this tour offers a memorable day of discovery in Kakheti.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes all wine tastings at three wineries, lunch at a family-owned winery, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with start at 9:30 am and end around 7:30 pm.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult; specific age restrictions are not detailed but are generally suitable for families.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private vehicle transport is part of the experience, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Badiauri bakery, Sighnaghi and Okro’s Winery, Velistiskhe family home for lunch, Khareba underground tunnel winery, and a scenic Gombori Pass photo stop.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely, the guided tastings and explanations make it accessible for all levels of wine knowledge.

What is the focus of the wine tastings?
The tastings emphasize traditional Georgian wines, especially those made in Qvevris, complemented by some natural and organic wines.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The itinerary involves some walking through towns and wineries, but it is generally moderate in difficulty; suitable for most travelers.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The personalized service, authentic family lunch, underground tunnel winery, and expert guides distinguish this experience from more generic wine tours.