Kvareli is a top destination for anyone seeking authentic Georgian cuisine and wine experiences. The region’s rich tradition of winemaking and hearty food makes it a perfect spot for memorable meals. We particularly love the Kakheti Special Food Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch & Dinner because it combines a full day of exploring with the chance to sample everything from St. Nino’s monastery to local markets, topped off with delicious traditional dishes and wines. If you want a well-rounded experience that includes sightseeing and cultural highlights, this tour stands out. For a more intimate, hands-on experience, the Kakhetian Authentic Wine Tasting and Traditional Dinner offers a deep dive into rural Kakhetian wine-making, complete with a family-run winery visit and a crafting session for Churchkhela—Georgia’s famous candy.
Both tours showcase Kakheti’s amazing food and wine culture, but they cater to different interests: one focuses on a full-day sightseeing adventure, while the other emphasizes authentic wine-making and local culinary traditions. Read on to find the perfect match for your taste buds.
Below is a quick overview of the best dining experiences in Kvareli, highlighting what makes each unique:
- Kakheti Special Food Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch & Dinner: A comprehensive day trip combining sightseeing, wine tastings, and full meals.
- Kakhetian Authentic Wine Tasting and Traditional Dinner: An immersive family-run winery visit with tastings, local snacks, and a traditional dinner.
1. Kakheti Special Food Tour with Wine Tasting, Lunch & Dinner
On this full-day tour from Tbilisi, you’ll get a taste of the Kakheti region’s cultural and culinary riches. It begins with a visit to the iconic Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, where you’ll learn about Georgia’s spiritual core and the story of the saint who brought Christianity to Georgia. Next, you’re off to Sighnaghi, with its charming streets and sweeping views of the Alazani Valley—perfect for photos.
The tour then moves to a local winery, such as Winery Khareba, where you’ll tour the cellar and sample a variety of Kakhetian wines. You’ll enjoy a traditional lunch featuring hearty Georgian dishes like khachapuri and khinkali, served in a cozy setting. The afternoon includes a visit to Telavi, Georgia’s wine capital, with a walk through its market before heading back to Tbilisi. The day wraps up with a Georgian dinner of dumplings that captures the region’s love for communal eating.
This tour is excellent for travelers who want a balanced combination of sightseeing, cultural insights, and food. The itinerary’s structure—highlighting both historical sites and local flavors—makes it a good choice for first-timers. The reviews praise the friendly guides and the variety of tastings. Expect to pay around $225 per person, which covers a rich experience with meals and tastings included.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a complete, well-paced introduction to Kakheti’s best food and wine, perfect for those wanting to see the sights while enjoying authentic meals.
2. Kakhetian Authentic Wine Tasting and Traditional Dinner
For travelers eager for a closer look at traditional Kakhetian wine-making, this family-run winery experience is a standout. It centers on Georgia’s unique Qvevri wine, made using ancient clay vessels buried underground. During this tour, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of 5-7 wines, each representing different grape varieties and styles, many of which are only available in Kakheti.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to participate in the wine-making process, including a walk through the vineyards and a Chacha-making celebration—a potent local spirit. The tour also features a dish of local snacks, like churchkhela, Khachapuri, and Khinkali, paired perfectly with the wines. The evening culminates in a traditional dinner with Kakhetian food, often served family-style, fostering a true sense of local hospitality.
Guests love the authenticity of the family atmosphere and the chance to learn about the history and techniques behind Georgia’s famous wines. The tour offers excellent value for money, especially for wine lovers seeking a personal, hands-on experience. Expect reviews to highlight the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the wines—a real insider’s look at Kakhetian traditions.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts and those wanting an intimate, cultural experience rooted in local traditions.
How to Choose
When deciding between these experiences, consider your priorities: If you want a full day of sightseeing combined with multiple meals and cultural sights, the Kakheti Special Food Tour offers a well-rounded itinerary. However, if your focus is deepening your understanding of Kakheti’s wine-making, especially if you’re interested in Qvevri wine and hands-on participation, then the Kakhetian Authentic Wine Tasting and Traditional Dinner provides a more immersive experience.
Budget-wise, both tours are similarly priced around $225, though the second leans more towards wine aficionados. For travelers with limited time or a strong interest in culinary traditions, the second can be more focused, while the first offers a broader cultural overview.
When to book? Kakheti has a good year-round climate, but spring and fall are ideal for sightseeing and vineyard walks. Reserve early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Kvareli offers rich options for dining and wine experiences that go beyond just tasting. Whether you prefer a comprehensive day trip with sightseeing and meals or a deep dive into traditional wine-making, both tours deliver authentic tastes of Georgia. The Kakheti Special Food Tour is perfect for those wanting a full culture, while the Kakhetian Authentic Wine Tasting appeals to wine lovers eager for a personalized experience.
For most travelers, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Whatever your preference, Kvareli is a must-visit for anyone eager to indulge in Georgia’s rich food and wine traditions.