Gourmet Georgia – Culture, Wines and Cuisine in the Caucasus

Today you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, there may be time for a sightseeing tour this afternoon, with dinner in a local restaurant.

Tbilisi

Tbilisi – capital of Georgia, in the Caucasus is considered one of the world’s most ancient cities. Before Tbilisi, Mtskheta was the royal capital of Georgia until the 5th century.

Legend tells that King Vakhtang Gorgasali went hunting here. He shot a pheasant which fell into hot bubbling water. The water was so hot that the king was able to eat the boiled pheasant! Deeply surprised the king commanded the city of Tbilisi to be built at the site of the hunt and to this day there are hot springs here, healing and soothing various ailments.

Shortly afterwards the capital was moved from Mtskheta to Tbilisi.

Tbilisi, along with the Georgian people has survived a great number of wars, disasters and invasions due to its strategic proximity to the lucrative Silk Road: by Romans, Arabs, Mongols, Persians, Turks and more.

But it has survived and today Tbilisi is a large cultural and economic center of not only Georgia but the whole Caucasus.

Since the Rose Revolution in 2003 the economy has improved and urban regeneration.

Tdoday there are many universities and colleges, scientific and medical centers, ultra- modern sports facilities and other entertainment and cultural centers.

In the second half of 20th century, Tbilisi increased its population to the current 1.5 million people.

The old town is located on cliffs and hills overlooking the Kura River, and the city is famous for its beautifu architecture dating from the Russian Imperial period and especially an abundance of Art Nouveau buildings.

Today you will have a local guide for a Tbilisi City Tour – a captivating journey through the heart of Georgia’s vibrant capital.

Visit the iconic Narikala Fortress, offering breathtaking views of Tbilisi.

See the spa baths of Abanotubani, the source of Tbilisi’s founding history and a testament to its cultural heritage.

The tour will let you explore the enchanting Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets filled with charming houses and hidden courtyards, where stories of centuries past come to life.

At lunchtime, you will have your first Georgian ‘foodie’ experience – a master class in Megrelian cuisine at a local restaurant.

You will concentrate on making traditional cheese based dishes – elarji and gebzhalia, and have delicious lunch.

Then take a walk on Rustaveli Avenue, home to numerous museums and galleries showcasing Georgian art, history, and culture.

This evening, have a delicious dinner at a local restaurant accompanied by a captivating folk show.

Leave Tbilisi in the morning,to journey to the Kakheti region.

The whole region of Kakheti is considered to be the “cradle of wine” and its winemaking method uses Kvevri, a unique ancient vessel, which has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

First, explore the historic Telavi bazaar, where we will immerse ourselves in the sights and sounds of a traditional Georgian market and sample some of the locally produced artisanal goods. Enjoy the local produce at lunch at a local restaurant.

While in Telavi, stop by Tsivi Cheese, a local factory, which produces natural dairy produce, and taste various sorts of cheeses.

Next, travel to Tsinandali, to explore the famous manor house museum.

This historic residence showcases the life and work of Prince Alexander Chavchavadze, a prominent Georgian aristocrat, Romantic poet, and military figure, who lived in the early 19th century.

At this historic residence, you will also have a chance to participate in wine- tasting.

Later in Tsinandali, pay a visit to Shumi Winery. This unique winery has played an important role in local viticulture as it was the first one to utilize biodynamic and green harvest methods.

Here, you will have dinner, savour several exquisite local wines and have a master class on making celebrated local candy – Churchkhela.

Since Kakheti is considered as “the cradle of wine”, you will make several oenological stops.

Discover Schuchmann Wines founded in 2008 by Schuchmann family. This ultra- premium winery specializing in famous indigenous grape varieties joined traditional Georgian wine making practices with German ingenuity to produce age-worthy and memorable wine.

Next, drive to Kvareli, to explore scenic vineyards and indulge in wine tastings. Visit the unique wine cellar known as Kvareli Wine Cave.

The cave is carved into the Caucasus rock massif and its temperature ranges from 12-16 ° C, which creates an ideal environment for wine storage and aging. Explore the 7.7 km long tunnel and savour some of their exquisite wines.

The second stop in Kvareli is Wine Yard N1. At this family-owned winery your hosts will welcome you to share lunch and give you a master class on making the distinct Georgian bread.

After lunch explore Sighnaghi, a picturesque town overlooking the stunning Alazani Valley.

Known as the “City of Love”, Sighnaghi is famous for its charming cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture.

Another master class awaits in Sighnaghi: a local family will teach you to make Mtsvadi – deliciously seasoned grilled meat. Before sharing as a delicious dinner together.

Later on return to Tbilisi.

In the morning, head north along the renowned Georgian Military Highway, where nature’s splendour and history blend harmoniously.

Your first stop will be at the magnificent Ananuri Fortress Complex, nestled along the picturesque Aragvi River. At the centre of the complex, there is a fortified 17th century church adorned with captivating carvings influenced by Persian and pagan art.

Make a stop to have lunch in Pasanauri – well known for its tasty local cuisine.

On the way to Kazbegi, take a short break by the famous Gudauri view-point, which offers stunning views. During your exhilarating journey in Kazbegi, 4WDs will take you up through the forest to the Gergeti Trinity Church. Perched dramatically on a hilltop against the majestic Mount Kazbegi backdrop, you’ll explore this 14th century iconic marvel.

Spend the rest of the day exploring this beautiful remote area acquiring an experience one doesn’t easily forget.

Later on you’ll be hosted at Ketino’s Guesthouse, where Ketino herself will give you a master class on making Georgian traditional dumplings – khinkali.

Share dinner together with your new Georgian friends.

The day ends in Gudauri. Surrounded by the towering Caucasus Mountains, you will be captivated by the awe-inspiring panoramas.

Leave Gudauri in the morning and drive back to the capital – Tbilisi.

On the way, we make several fascinating stops.

The first stop is Mtskheta – the ancient capital of Georgia – a town that offers a glimpse into the country’s glorious past.

Visit the stunning Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a revered religious symbol, where, according to legend, Christ’s robe is buried.

Right outside of Mtskheta, you will stop by Nebi Winery, where you will learn to make Khachapuri – a traditional Georgian dish of cheese-filled bread, and have delicious lunch and savour wine made by your host family.

Later visit Château Mukhrani located near Tbilisi. Once a royal abode, this venerable estate invites you to wander through its time-honored halls, where the echoes of regal footsteps linger. The wine tasting experience becomes a journey through the ages, allowing you to savor not just the exquisite wines but also the enduring legacy of Château Mukhrani.

At the end of the day, return to Tbilisi and have delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Departure to the airport for your onward flight.