If you’re craving an authentic taste of Georgia’s wine and culinary traditions, this day-long tour from Tbilisi to Kakheti might just be the experience you’re looking for. It promises a blend of hands-on activities, scenic views, and genuine hospitality—all wrapped into one well-paced day.
What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines interactive moments like making Khinkali (those beloved Georgian dumplings) with a relaxed wine tasting in a historic cellar, and the chance to explore local markets. The fact that it’s operated by Rostomaant Marani, a family winery, adds a warm, personal touch that many travelers find genuine.
One potential downside? The full-day schedule means a fair bit of driving and activity packed into roughly 10 hours—so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or are traveling with very young children, you might find it a bit intense. However, for anyone eager to get a well-rounded taste of Kakheti’s wine and food scene in a single day, this tour hits many marks.
Overall, it suits travelers who love hands-on experiences, want to learn about Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions, and enjoy a bit of local flavor beyond just tasting wine. If you’re looking for an immersive, friendly introduction to Kakheti’s culture, this is worth considering.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines wine tasting, a cooking class, and local market visits in one day.
- Hands-on Activities: Learn to make Khinkali, Georgia’s iconic dumplings.
- Cultural Insight: Guided tour of a 200-year-old Qvevri wine cellar, with explanations of the UNESCO-recognized winemaking process.
- Personal Touch: Tour led by the owner of Rostomaant Marani, adding warmth and local knowledge.
- Flexible Options: Optional overnight stay at the guest house, ideal for those wanting more time in Kakheti.
- Family Friendly: Vegetarian options are available, and the experience offers a relaxed atmosphere suitable for most travelers.
Exploring the Experience in Detail
Starting Out: From Tbilisi to Kakheti
Your day kicks off around 11:00 AM, with a personal greeting by the owner of Rostomaant Marani. The group is small—limited to 10 participants—which helps keep things intimate and conversational. The drive from Tbilisi offers a scenic introduction to Georgia’s countryside; passing through the Gombori Mountains, you get glimpses of lush fields, traditional villages, and mountain vistas that set the tone for the day.
First Stop: The Telavi Bazar
Your first taste of local life is at the Telavi bazar, a lively market packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, spices, and the classic Georgian churchkhela (a candied nut snack). Walking through, you might find the bustling atmosphere and colorful stalls a highlight—not just a shopping stop but an immersive entry into everyday Kakhetian life.
If you’re a foodie, this market offers a window into local ingredients, and you’ll likely enjoy the chance to see regional produce firsthand. It’s also a good opportunity to ask your guide questions about traditional Georgian foods—a conversation starter that deepens your appreciation for the cuisine.
Visiting Rostomaant Marani’s Cellar
Next up is the Rostomaant Marani wine cellar in Telavi, where the real magic happens. The cellars are over 200 years old, and the guide walks you through the process of Qvevri winemaking, a UNESCO heritage method involving large clay vessels buried underground. You get to see the Qvevris still in use today, which is both impressive and tangible proof of Georgia’s long history of wine.
The guided wine tasting features a curated selection, including:
- Rkatsiteli Qvevri Amber Dry Wine
- Saperavi Qvevri Red Dry Wine
- Rostwine 1 & 2 (dessert wines)
- Chacha (Georgian pomace brandy)
- Aged Qvevri Wine Brandy (5 years in oak)
The owner’s personal explanations help you understand what makes Georgian wine unique—its natural fermentation, traditional clay vessels, and the mountain-grown grapes. Many reviews note the hospitality and depth of knowledge from the owner, making this not just a tasting but a cultural lesson.
More Great Tours NearbyHands-On: Making Khinkali
Then it’s time for a Khinkali master class. You’ll learn how to fold these traditional dumplings, often filled with meat or vegetarian options, and cook them yourself. The process is straightforward but requires some finesse—something you’ll appreciate learning from a local.
Once cooked, you get to enjoy your creations with homemade cheese, bread, and seasonal jams, all washed down with a glass of Qvevri wine. The experience isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind these beloved dishes. Vegetarian guests are especially well taken care of, with a special cheese Khinkali option.
Additional Tastings and Relaxation
After lunch, the owner allows some downtime, so you can take photos, ask questions, or simply soak in the peaceful cellar atmosphere. This is also a good moment to reflect and appreciate the skill involved in Georgian winemaking and cuisine.
The tasting menu includes curated wines and spirits that showcase Georgia’s diverse wine heritage, from dry reds and whites to dessert wines and brandy. The tasting is relaxed and informative, often described as warm and genuine—likely the highlight for many.
Return Journey and Optional Overnight Stay
Around 6:00 PM, your return trip begins, taking you back through the scenic Gombori Mountains. You should arrive around 7:30 PM, with plenty of memories and photos to share.
If you want to extend your experience, you can opt to stay overnight at the Rostomaant Marani Guest House for 75 GEL per person—including breakfast. This is perfect if you’re keen to relax longer in Kakheti or explore more of the region at a slower pace.
What’s the Value?
Looking at the cost, the tour covers transportation, a visit to a lively market, a private cellar tour and tasting, a hands-on cooking class, and a generous amount of wine tasting—all led by a passionate local. The small group size enhances the experience, making it feel more personal and less like a packaged tour.
While the price might seem steep compared to just booking individual activities, the combo of cultural insights, authentic experiences, and the convenience of transportation makes it a good deal for those wanting a comprehensive day in Kakheti.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking through markets and possibly in the cellar.
- Bring a camera—the scenic drive, market, and cellar offer plenty of photo opportunities.
- Vegetarian? The tour accommodates vegetarian options, especially at the Khinkali.
- Long day? Be prepared for a full, activity-packed schedule—if you prefer a more relaxed day, consider the overnight stay option.
- Optional overnight stay is a nice add-on if you want to unwind longer and enjoy Kakheti at a slower pace.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting—they’re after a hands-on culture. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and curious travelers eager to understand Georgia’s traditions in a friendly, approachable setting. The small-group format makes it suitable for those wanting a more intimate, relaxed day without feeling rushed.
It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates genuine local hospitality and authentic experiences. If you’re traveling with children, the tour could work if they’re comfortable with a full day of activity, but it’s primarily designed for adults.
FAQs
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tbilisi is included if you choose the standard package. It’s provided by the owner in a Honda Fit.
Can I join if I’m already in Telavi?
Yes, there’s a special option for Telavi guests to join the Khinkali master class and wine tasting directly at Rostomaant Marani for 150 GEL per person—transport isn’t included.
What’s the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts about 10 hours, starting around 11:00 AM and returning by approximately 7:30 PM.
Is there a vegetarian option for the meal?
Definitely. Vegetarian guests are welcomed, and the tour offers a special cheese Khinkali.
How many people typically participate?
Small group size—limited to 10 participants—helps keep things personal and relaxed.
Can I stay overnight at the guesthouse?
Yes, for 75 GEL per person, including breakfast. It’s a good way to extend your time in Kakheti.
What wines are tasted?
You’ll sample a selection of traditional Qvevri wines, including dry reds and whites, as well as dessert wines and spirits like Chacha.
Is the tour suitable for families?
While primarily aimed at adults, it could be suitable for families with older children who are interested in food and wine.
Are there any limitations I should be aware of?
Smoking is not allowed in the vehicle or indoors, and the schedule is quite full, so plan accordingly.
What’s the best way to book?
Reservations are recommended, and you can choose to pay later to keep plans flexible.
Telavi: Rostomaant Marani Family Winery Tour & Cooking Class
Final Thoughts
This Telavi Rostomaant Marani Family Winery Tour & Cooking Class offers a well-rounded day of tasting, learning, and exploring Georgian culture. It shines in its personal approach, with a host genuinely passionate about sharing his heritage. The combination of market visits, wine cellar tours, and a hands-on cooking experience makes it more than just a tasting trip—it’s a genuine dive into Kakheti’s traditions.
If you’re after an authentic, interactive introduction to Georgia’s wine and food scene, this tour will likely resonate. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate small-group, personalized experiences that go beyond surface-level tasting.
While it’s a full day, the diversity of activities keeps things lively, and the friendly atmosphere helps you feel like a guest in a local home rather than just another tourist. For wine lovers and curious travelers ready to taste, learn, and experience Georgia’s hospitality firsthand, this is a strong choice.
In essence, this tour is a chance to see Georgia through its most delicious lens—wine, food, and warm hospitality—all wrapped into a day that’s as engaging as it is rewarding.
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