Tbilisi: Wine Tasting with Sommelier at Rtvelisi Brand Shop

Imagine spending an hour in Tbilisi, sampling some of Georgia’s most beloved wines and Chacha, all guided by an expert in a sophisticated setting. That’s what this wine tasting experience at Rtvelisi offers — a chance to get a taste of Georgian craftsmanship without leaving the city center. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Georgian traditions, this tour might just be a highlight of your trip.

What really stands out to us are the professional guidance from a knowledgeable sommelier and the chance to sample some of RTVELISI’s top wines in an elegant environment. Plus, the pairing board of dried fruits and nuts elevates the tasting, making each sip even more memorable. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the duration — just one hour — which might feel a little brief if you’re eager for a more in-depth exploration.

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, refined introduction to Georgia’s wine scene, particularly those who appreciate quality over quantity. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for kids or pregnant women, but for adults interested in cultural tastings and authentic flavors, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Guided by a professional sommelier, ensuring you understand and appreciate each sip.
• Elegant setting at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace offers a luxurious atmosphere.
• Includes four wines, chacha, and a pairing board, providing a well-rounded tasting.
• Focus on RTVELISI, a top-selling and trusted Georgian wine brand with a strong local connection.
• Short but sweet: a one-hour experience ideal for a quick cultural fix.
• Not suitable for children or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

If you’re looking to explore Georgia’s wine culture in a refined, comfortable environment, this Tbilisi wine tasting with a sommelier could be exactly what you need. It’s not just about drinking wine, but about understanding the stories behind the bottles, the craftsmanship involved, and the tradition that makes Georgian wine unique. Hosted in the plush surroundings of the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, this experience combines elegance with education, making it perfect for those wanting a touch of class during their visit.

Two things we really like are the expert guidance and the vetting of RTVELISI as a top brand. Knowing that you’re sampling trusted, popular wines adds peace of mind. The tasting includes a curated selection of four different wines and classic Chacha, Georgia’s famous grape spirit. The accompanying dried fruit and nuts serve as a perfect complement, enhancing the flavor profiles and making each sip more enjoyable.

One thing to consider is that the experience lasts only about an hour, which means it’s more of a snapshot than an extensive wine journey. If you’re a wine lover seeking a deep dive, this might feel a bit brief, but for a relaxed introduction or a quick cultural fix, it works well. That said, it’s ideal for those who want a sophisticated, fun, and educational outing without much fuss.

This tasting is best suited for adults curious about Georgia’s wines, those interested in local traditions, or anyone who appreciates a quality setting. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a refined activity, but perhaps not the best fit if you’re after a more immersive, extensive wine tour.

What to Expect from the Tasting

Premium Setting at Sheraton Grand Tbilisi

The experience takes place inside the luxurious Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace. The elegant, comfortable environment sets the scene for a relaxed and refined tasting. It’s a stark contrast to the rustic charm often associated with wine tastings elsewhere, making it a great choice for travelers looking for something upscale.

Hosted by a Knowledgeable Sommelier

The star of the show is the professional sommelier guiding you through the tasting. Their role is to share the stories behind each wine and chacha, helping you understand what makes them unique. The guide’s storytelling is engaging and informative, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Selection of Wines and Chacha

You’ll sample four wines: a dry white, a semi-sweet red, and two Qvevri wines (amber and red). The term “Qvevri” refers to traditional Georgian clay vessels used for wine-making, which adds a layer of authenticity to your tasting. These wines showcase the diversity of Georgian winemaking traditions. Accompanying the wines is a classic Chacha, Georgia’s iconic grape spirit, which is often quite potent and flavorful.

Food Pairings

The tasting includes a beautifully arranged board of dried fruits and nuts. These pairings are designed to complement the wine’s flavors and add a touch of texture and contrast. It’s a small but thoughtful addition that enhances the overall sensory experience.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about an hour, making it an easy add-on to your day. It’s offered as a private group, meaning the focus is on personalized attention, which is ideal for those wanting a more intimate setting.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and operates in multiple languages including Georgian, Russian, and English. You can reserve with flexibility, as cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later.

The Breakdown: What the Itinerary Looks Like

While the official itinerary is straightforward—starting at Telavi Street and concluding at the Sheraton—the real value lies in the atmosphere and the curated selection of wines. You won’t be visiting vineyards here; instead, you’re transported into the heart of Georgian wine culture through tasting and storytelling.

The tasting itself is structured to first introduce you to the basics of Georgian wine-making, then gradually elevate to more complex styles like the amber and Qvevri wines. The inclusion of Chacha offers a chance to explore Georgia’s traditional grape spirit in a controlled, educational environment.

The Experience in Practice — Authentic, Yet Comfortable

Many reviews point out that the setting is both elegant and comfortable without feeling pretentious. The staff is described as friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy to ask questions and engage with the story of each wine. While some mention the experience feeling a little short, most agree it’s a worthwhile, high-quality introduction to Georgian wine.

The tasting is generally praised for its focus on quality over quantity—a few thoughtfully selected wines that showcase the country’s diversity. Some reviews emphasize how the sommelier’s storytelling added depth, making the wines more memorable. Others note that the pairing board complements each wine perfectly, preventing the tasting from feeling monotonous.

Travelers also highlight that the experience is accessible and flexible, with options to cancel or reschedule if needed. The private setting ensures you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed, which is especially appreciated by those new to wine tasting or unfamiliar with Georgian wines.

The Value Proposition

At a price point that covers four wines, Chacha, and pairing snacks within an elegant setting, this experience offers good value—especially considering the guided aspect and the learning opportunity. It’s a curated, premium taste of Georgia’s wine culture, not just a casual sip at a bar.

For travelers who want a relaxed yet insightful experience, it’s a perfect way to spend an hour. It’s especially great for those who want to avoid crowded tour buses but still crave a taste of local craftsmanship in style.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tasting is perfect for adults interested in wine, whether you’re a casual drinker or a budding connoisseur. It’s well-suited for those wanting a sophisticated and educational activity in the heart of Tbilisi. If you enjoy stories about culture, tradition, and craftsmanship, you’ll find this experience engaging.

However, it’s not designed for children or pregnant women, given the alcohol content and nature of the tasting. If you’re after a deep dive into Georgian wines or a multi-hour tour, you might want to look for more extensive options.

FAQ

Is the tasting suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in Georgian, Russian, and English, so language barriers shouldn’t be a problem.

Can I cancel the booking?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts about one hour, making it a quick yet meaningful activity during your day.

Is this experience family-friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for children or pregnant women, as it involves alcohol tasting.

Where does the tasting take place?
Inside the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, in an elegant, comfortable setting.

What wines will I taste?
Four wines: a dry white, semi-sweet red, amber Qvevri wine, and red Qvevri wine, plus traditional Chacha.

Is it suitable for someone new to wine?
Yes, with a professional guide leading you through each wine, it’s beginner-friendly.

How private is the experience?
It’s offered as a private group, so you’ll receive personalized attention and a cozy environment.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a stylish, informative overview of Georgian wine culture, this Tbilisi wine tasting at Rtvelisi offers a lot of value in a brief package. The combination of expert guidance, premium venue, and authentic wines makes it a memorable highlight for many travelers. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a taste of local tradition in a setting that feels both luxurious and intimate.

While it’s not an all-day deep dive, it’s perfect for a quick cultural infusion, especially if you’re curious about wine or looking to enjoy a refined experience without leaving the city. For wine lovers and those eager to understand Georgia’s unique winemaking approach, this tasting is a dependable choice that you’ll walk away from with new appreciation and some lovely stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: