Kakheti: Family wineries, Georgian warmth
With an 8,000-year history of winemaking, Georgia's Kakheti region is a must-visit for wine lovers seeking authentic experiences. From luxurious chateaus to cozy family wineries, Kakheti offers a diverse and captivating wine scene. In this blog post, we'll take you off the beaten track to explore some of the region's top family-run wineries where you'll experience warm hospitality, traditional Georgian winemaking, and unique local wines.
Shilda Winery: Stunning Views and Delicious Wine
Stunning views of the vineyards, a romantically decorated restaurant, and stunning cuisine – all this is Shilda Winery! This winery offers a measured wine tasting atmosphere for those seeking a peaceful experience. Shilda produces wines using both traditional Georgian methods (aging in qvevri) and a European approach, ensuring a diverse selection for every palate. Alongside their wines, Shilda Winery delights guests with a wide range of snacks, cheeses, and full-fledged dishes showcasing the best of Georgian cuisine.
Begaso Family Winery: Qvevri Wines and Mountain Views
Begaso is a small winery in the Kakhetian village of Sabue, where the owners will be happy to tell you about the methods of winemaking and feed you delicious Georgian dishes. Here you can stay in a guest house, tasting exquisite qvevri-aged wines, enjoying stunning cuisine and, of course, admiring the incredible mountain panorama. Begaso specializes in creating wines in qvevri and usually offer visitors to taste such varieties as Rkatsiteli (amber and rosé), Kisi, Khikhvi and Mtsvane.
Schuchmann Wines Chateau: Luxury and Tradition
Schuchmann is a magnificent hotel with a winery, expansive vineyards, and a spacious wine cellar. More than just a winery, Schuchmann offers a complete resort experience with a gym, a playroom, a swimming pool, a SPA, a sauna, and stunning views. Experience warm hospitality and learn the secrets of traditional Georgian winemaking in this castle-like setting. The Schuchmann estate also features wine processing tanks right in the courtyard and qvevris for you to see. Located in the middle of the Alazani Valley, with breathtaking mountain views, Schuchmann Chateau is the perfect place to unwind with a glass of delicious Georgian wine.
Kbilashvili Winery and Qvevri Workshop: Where Wine and Clay Meet
The Kbilashvili Winery, located near Telavi, offers visitors a unique look into both winemaking and traditional qvevri creation. Since the Kbilashvili family specializes in crafting these clay amphorae, you'll be able to marvel at their size and understand the work that goes into producing them. Learn about the multi-stage process of creating qvevri and enjoy a delicious wine tasting experience!
Babaneuris Marani: Immerse Yourself in Wine Culture
The cozy hotel with endless vineyards and its own winery "Babaneuris Marani" offers visitors a luxury vacation with full immersion in the Kakhetian winemaking culture. Unwind amidst the picturesque green mountains of Babaneuri, admire views of the Alazani Valley, and learn about the Georgian traditional method of aging grape must in qvevri. The hotel includes a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, parking and, of course, vineyards, providing the perfect setting to relax in Kakhetian wine country.
Lagazi Wine Cellar: Taste the Fruits of Natural Winemaking
The Lagazi winery, located in the village of Zemo Alvani in Kakheti, stands out for its commitment to natural winemaking. Winemaker Shalva emphasizes minimal intervention in the fermentation and aging processes. Explore the unique terroir, characterized by a dry climate and special soil mineralization, and taste the results in Lagazi's interesting wines. Enjoy a luxurious meal at Lagazi and even learn the art of cooking traditional Georgian dishes.
