Kutaisi: Khinkali Cooking Class with Wine Tasting

If you’re visiting Kutaisi and looking to dive into the local food scene while enjoying some traditional wine, this Khinkali Cooking Class with Wine Tasting might just be the experience you’re after. It’s one of those activities that mixes hands-on fun with cultural insight, giving you a real taste of Georgia’s culinary soul.

From what we’ve seen and heard, two things really make this class stand out: the chance to learn how to make the iconic khinkali from a local cook and the opportunity to sample authentic, natural qvevri wine—a tradition that spans thousands of years. Plus, the cozy setting of Nikoladze Winery Shop adds a warm, inviting vibe that feels more like hanging out with friends than being on a formal tour.

That said, a potential consideration is that this experience is hands-on and involves participation, so you’ll want to bring comfortable clothes and be prepared to get a little messy. It’s not a passive activity, so if you’re not keen on rolling up your sleeves, this might not be your best fit.

This experience seems perfect for travelers who enjoy food, wine, and cultural traditions—especially those who want to connect with local life in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a foodie eager to learn new skills or simply curious about Georgian hospitality, this class offers a genuine taste of Kutaisi.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: You’ll actively participate in making khinkali, Georgia’s beloved mountain dumplings.
• Local tips: Led by a local cook, the class provides insightful explanations about Georgian cuisine and traditions.
• Authentic wine: Enjoy a glass of natural qvevri wine, giving you a taste of Georgia’s ancient winemaking methods.
• Cozy setting: The Nikoladze Winery Shop offers a warm, intimate environment ideal for small groups.
• Light meal: You get to taste your freshly made khinkali along with other delights, making this a satisfying cultural experience.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience adds peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Friendly Deep Dive into the Khinkali Cooking Class

If you love the idea of rolling up your sleeves and learning a new skill while soaking up local traditions, this class offers a lot. Starting at the Nikoladze Winery Shop in Kutaisi—just across the street from the Chain Bridge—the experience is centrally located and easy to find, especially since it’s also the starting point for the trail to Bagrati Cathedral.

The class lasts about 1.5 hours, a perfect length for a relaxed morning or afternoon activity. It’s limited to just six participants, which means it’s small enough to get plenty of personal attention from your host (Giorgi, as some reviews mention). That small size helps create a friendly, intimate vibe where questions are encouraged, and you get to really understand each step.

Making Khinkali: The Heart of the Experience

What sets this class apart is the interactive nature of making khinkali, Georgia’s iconic dumplings. You won’t just watch someone do it—you’ll actually be shaping the dough, filling the dumplings with juicy meat (or vegetarian options, if available), and learning how to fold them properly. The host explains each step carefully, making it accessible even for beginners.

The process of preparing the dough and creating those signature pleats offers insight into the care and skill that Georgians put into their food. We loved the way the instructor answered questions about local ingredients and traditions, making the experience both educational and genuine.

The Art of Cooking and Eating Khinkali

Once your khinkali are ready, they’re cooked in traditional fashion—boiled to perfection. While they’re simmering, you’re treated to a glass of natural qvevri wine, which is a highlight for many. This ancient style of winemaking involves fermenting grapes in large clay vessels underground, creating wines that are often more complex and earthy than commercial varieties.

By tasting the wine while your dumplings cook, you get a true sense of Georgia’s rich wine culture. The instructor shares stories about the history of winemaking in Georgia, adding depth to your tasting experience. When your khinkali are ready, you’ll enjoy them fresh, often with a light meal that includes the other small dishes or snacks provided.

What the Reviews Say

A recent review from Christina in France sums things up nicely: “Giorgi was very welcoming and explained everything carefully, answering questions about his country and city, the food, and the wine-making tradition. We learned a lot of new things that day. The workshop was very interesting, and we got to try to repeat the steps. The end result was delicious, which we enjoyed with a few glasses of wonderful wine. Overall, very beautiful memories to be made in Kutaisi, worth it!”

This highlights how approachable and engaging the instructor is, making it suitable even for those without prior cooking experience. The taste of the khinkali, paired with the wine, often receives praise for being both authentic and delicious.

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Practical Aspects and Value

The class is priced reasonably when you consider you’re getting to learn a new skill, taste authentic wine, and enjoy a light meal—all in a cozy setting. The small group size makes it feel personal, and the flexible cancellation policy allows you to book with confidence.

It’s worth noting that participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes that can get a little dirty—a sign of how involved the cooking process is. Also, since wine is served, participants should be of legal drinking age, but otherwise, it’s suitable for most travelers interested in local culture.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for foodies, wine lovers, and curious travelers eager to gain a hands-on cultural experience. If you enjoy culinary activities that go beyond simply tasting, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to make your own khinkali and learn about Georgia’s ancient winemaking. It’s also a good choice for couples or small groups who want a relaxed, engaging activity that isn’t rushed.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Kutaisi Khinkali Cooking Class with Wine Tasting offers a genuine, intimate look at Georgian food and wine traditions. You’ll leave with new skills, a full belly, and stories to tell. The cozy setting, expert guidance, and authentic flavors make it a highlight for anyone interested in exploring Georgia’s culinary roots.

If your trip to Kutaisi is all about tasting local traditions and connecting with the culture in a relaxed, fun way, this class fits the bill perfectly. It’s not a high-energy tour, but that’s part of its charm—an unhurried, tasty dive into Georgia’s culinary heart.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be accessible, with clear instructions from the host. Whether you’ve cooked before or not, you’ll be able to participate and learn.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes that can get a bit messy are best, since you’ll be involved in kneading and shaping dough.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While wine tasting is included, you can enjoy the class without drinking alcohol. Just let your host know if you prefer non-alcoholic options.

How long does the experience last?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours, which makes it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to six participants, ensuring plenty of personal attention from the instructor.

Where does the class take place?
At the Nikoladze Winery Shop in Kutaisi, just across the street from the Chain Bridge and near the trail to Bagrati Cathedral.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience.

This cooking class with wine tasting in Kutaisi offers a well-balanced mix of culture, cuisine, and conviviality. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about Georgian traditions, it’s an experience that’s likely to leave you with both new skills and warm memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: