Wine & Dine group tour from Kutaisi

Exploring the Georgia Wine & Dine Group Tour from Kutaisi

If you’re after an authentic taste of Georgia’s renowned wine and food scene, the Wine & Dine group tour from Kutaisi offers a balanced mix of culture and delicious indulgence. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a charming, well-organized experience that’s perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Georgian traditions beyond the typical sightseeing.

What makes this trip stand out? First, you get to visit a female-led family winery, which offers a refreshing perspective and warmth you won’t find in large commercial wineries. Second, the wine tasting features a variety of local wines alongside the fiery Chacha, giving you a genuine taste of Georgian craftsmanship. Third, the homemade Georgian lunch—crafted by Baia’s mother—serves up some of the most flavorful, hearty dishes you’ll find in Georgia.

However, a potential consideration is the duration and pace. The tour runs for about four hours, including travel and tasting, so it’s quite a compact experience. Those looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration might find it a bit rushed, but it’s perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of Georgian wine culture without losing time.

This experience suits wine lovers, foodies, and those seeking authentic local interactions in a short timeframe. It’s especially ideal for visitors based in Kutaisi who want a taste of Georgian hospitality without venturing too far.

Good To Know

• Authentic Family Winery Visit: Experience a guided tour of Baia’s winery, led by the passionate local sisters.
• Diverse Tasting: Enjoy three different wines and Chacha, showcasing Georgia’s diverse wine styles.
• Home-cooked Georgian Meal: Savor a traditional homemade lunch, crafted by Baia’s mother, full of flavor and local ingredients.
• Comfortable Transport & Punctual Schedule: Efficient pick-up from Kutaisi, with well-timed stops, making it a convenient half-day activity.
• Cultural Connection: Meet local winemakers and gain insight into Georgian wine-making traditions.
• Limited Duration: The tour is about 4 hours, making it suitable for those wanting a brief but immersive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins promptly at 13:00 from Budget Georgia’s office in Kutaisi, with a comfortable van transfer that takes approximately 50 minutes to reach Bagdati. The pick-up process is straightforward, with clear instructions, which is reassuring for those unfamiliar with the area. The transportation is private or semi-private, allowing for easy conversation and relaxed seating.

Vineyard & Winery Tour

Once arriving in the picturesque village of Obcha, the real highlight begins. Baia and her sister Gvantsa greet visitors warmly, sharing stories about their family’s wine-making journey. The vineyard behind their house offers a charming setting—simple yet scenic, a perfect backdrop for understanding the roots of Georgian viticulture.

The guided tour of the winery cellar lasts about 10 minutes, during which they explain the different varieties—Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere—each with unique characteristics. Travelers have noted that the sisters are enthusiastic and eager to share their passion, making the experience engaging and authentic.

Wine & Chacha Tasting

The core of the tour is the tasting session, which lasts roughly 30 minutes. Expect to sample three types of wine—each with distinct flavors, from the crispness of Tsolikouri to the more aromatic Ojaleshi. The addition of Chacha, Georgia’s fiery grape spirit, offers a fun, spirited shot to end the tasting. Reviewers mention that the wines are of excellent quality, and the selection genuinely reflects the local terroir.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Georgian Home Cooking & Lunch

The highlight for many is the home-cooked Georgian lunch. Baia’s mother prepares traditional dishes that keep guests returning for seconds. The meal includes hearty, flavorful items—perhaps Imereian food, which is a hallmark of the region, featuring bread, cheese, fresh vegetables, and local meat options. One reviewer described it as “the most delicious Imereian food you’ll ever try,” emphasizing how the food complements the wine perfectly.

The lunch lasts about 100 minutes, giving enough time to relax, chat, and fully enjoy the authentic hospitality. It’s a great way to connect with local culture through food and conversation.

Return to Kutaisi

Post-lunch, the group departs around 17:00, with the return journey taking about 50 minutes. Travelers often find the ride a pleasant reflection on the day’s highlights, and the overall experience feels well-paced for a half-day trip.

Is It Worth the Price?

For the price—covering a guided winery tour, tasting of three wines and Chacha, and a homemade Georgian lunch—the experience delivers solid value. You’re not just paying for tastings, but for a personal, intimate look at a family’s wine-making traditions, which is a rare glimpse that larger commercial tours rarely offer.

Authenticity & Personal Touch

A standout feature is the personal involvement of Baia and Gvantsa, who are eager to share their story and craft. Guests consistently mention how this personal connection made the experience more meaningful. The warmth of the family, combined with authentic food and wine, offers a genuine taste of Georgian hospitality.

Practical Tips

• Starting early afternoon suits most travelers, but check availability for specific times.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive.
• Since the tour is designed for groups, expect a cozy, friendly atmosphere with other travelers.
• Remember to bring cash if you wish to buy bottles of wine directly from the winery—some reviews mention the sisters’ wines are worth taking home.

Final Thoughts

This Wine & Dine tour from Kutaisi offers a wonderful combination of wine, food, and local culture, all within a manageable four-hour window. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, intimate experience that doesn’t require extensive travel or time commitment.

If you love discovering small-scale producers and enjoy hearty Georgian cuisine, this tour ticks those boxes beautifully. The warm hospitality, quality wines, and delicious homemade meal make it a memorable outing. While it may be brief, it delivers a rich, authentic taste of Georgia’s wine traditions—perfect for a quick but meaningful culture.

For those wanting a genuine connection with local winemakers, plus a chance to savor traditional Georgian dishes, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially well-suited for visitors in Kutaisi seeking a short, yet impactful, escape into Georgian wine country.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors with mobility concerns should find it manageable.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 13:00, but availability can vary—be sure to check the schedule when booking.

How long does the winery visit last?
The guided tour of the winery lasts about 10 minutes, with additional time for tastings and the lunch.

Are the wines local and traditional?
Absolutely. The wines include local varieties like Tsolikouri and Ojaleshi, plus Chacha, which are staples of Georgian wine culture.

Can I buy wine directly from the winery?
Yes, some reviews suggest that the sisters’ wines are worth purchasing, and the winery is a good place to pick up bottles to take home.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians?
The lunch is homemade Georgian cuisine, typically hearty and meat-based, but it’s worth inquiring in advance if you have specific dietary restrictions.

Do I need to prepare anything special for the tour?
Just bring an open mind and perhaps some cash for any extra bottles you want to buy. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the vineyard.

This guided tour offers a heartfelt slice of Georgia’s wine and culinary traditions, wrapped in friendly hospitality and authentic charm. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply curious about Georgian culture, it’s a small adventure with a big flavor profile.

You can check if your dates are available here: