Full Day Private Wine Tour in Kakheti Region with Lunch and 3 Wine Tastings

Exploring Georgia’s Wine Heritage: A Deep Dive into the Full Day Private Kakheti Tour

If you’re dreaming of tasting some of the best wines Georgia has to offer, this private full-day Kakheti tour might just be what you need. We haven’t personally been on this exact outing, but based on extensive reviews and the detailed itinerary, it promises an authentic and comprehensive experience. Think organic wines, hearty Georgian cuisine, scenic mountain vistas, and ample opportunities to learn about one of the world’s oldest wine cultures—all packed into roughly 10 hours.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded view of Kakheti’s wine scene—from organic boutique wineries to massive underground tunnels. Second, the guides seem genuinely knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. One potential drawback? It’s a full day, and the pace might be a bit fast for those wanting a relaxed, leisurely afternoon. Still, if you’re eager to see a good slice of Georgia’s wine country in one go, this trip is a solid pick.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy wine, culture, and scenic landscapes, and who don’t mind a day packed with activities and tasting. It’s particularly ideal if you’re visiting Tbilisi and want a taste of authentic Georgian traditions in a private setting. Families with older children or those interested in food and history might also find this tour engaging. Just be prepared for a long day of driving and exploring.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary combines winery visits, a traditional lunch, and scenic mountain views.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly, insightful approach.
• Wine tastings include natural, organic wines and traditional Georgian Qvevri wines, giving a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.
• Authentic experiences like homemade bread and cheese stop and family-run lunch add a personal touch.
• Underground Tunnel Winery offers a unique setting for wine aging and a chance to participate in a dessert-making masterclass.
• Value for money is highlighted, especially considering the variety and richness of experiences included.

The Full Day Experience: What’s in Store

This tour runs approximately 10 hours, starting with a pickup from your hotel in Tbilisi—convenient and stress-free. It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will be part of the adventure, so expect personalized attention and flexibility. The cost, $185 per person, covers a lot: multiple winery visits, a traditional Georgian lunch, tastings, and transportation. For travelers keen on discovering Georgia’s wine in depth, this is good value, especially given the quality of the experiences.

Stop 1: Badiauri – Bread and Cheese Introduction

The journey kicks off with a quick stop in Badiauri, a village where you’ll get a firsthand look at traditional Georgian bread making. The bakery’s famous shoti bread is served fresh and pairs perfectly with local homemade cheese. It’s a simple but memorable way to start the day, especially if you’re a foodie. Many reviews mention this roadside stop as a charming tradition that sets the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Signagi and Okro’s Organic Winery

Next, you’ll stroll the narrow, cobblestone streets of Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love” for its romantic ambiance and stunning views. Your destination here is Okro’s Boutique Winery, a leader in natural and organic wine production. The owner will walk you through the traditional Georgian wine-making process, explaining how wines are crafted in Qvevris—large clay vessels buried underground.

Here, you’ll taste three different varieties and some Chacha (Georgian grape vodka), all with the backdrop of Alazani Valley and the Caucasus Mountains. The reviews highlight this as a favorite stop, with many noting the quality and uniqueness of the wines. The marani (wine cellar) tour gives insight into the magic that goes into Georgian wine aging, and the owner’s passion adds a personal touch.

Stop 3: Vaxo Oqruashvili’s Family Winery & Home-Cooked Lunch

One of the most praised parts is the home-style lunch at a local family’s house in Velistiskhe. The winemaker, Vaxo, will personally host you, taking you around his vineyard, garden, and wine cellar. The emphasis on local, homemade products makes this a genuine experience—here, wine is part of the culture, not just a commercial product.

Guests often mention the abundance of food, the warm hospitality, and the delicious, home-cooked flavors. The traditional Georgian lunch typically features locally sourced ingredients, and the fact that wine is always present makes this a true feast. Many reviews note that the home-cooked meal exceeds expectations, feeling more like visiting family than a tour.

Stop 4: Tunnel Winery Khareba – Underground Wine Cellar

An iconic part of this tour is visiting Khareba’s underground tunnel winery—a vast complex built in a former Soviet bomb shelter. You’ll walk through 4.1 km of tunnels, sampling traditional Qvevri wines stored in earth-buried clay vessels. This is an unforgettable setting for wine tasting, combining history, architecture, and winemaking tradition.

Here, you can also participate in a masterclass to prepare Churchkhela, a traditional Georgian sweet made from grape juice and walnuts. Alternatively, another winery, Kindzmarauli Corporation, offers a tasting of five wines and a tour of their factory—depending on availability. This stop is often highlighted for its uniqueness and the chance to see Georgia’s traditional wine storage firsthand.

Stop 5: Gombori Pass – Scenic Mountain Views

On the way back, weather permitting, you’ll make a quick stop at Gombori Pass, situated at 1,600 meters above sea level. Expect panoramic views of mountains and valleys, perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape that makes Georgia’s wine country so special. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, especially in good weather when the views are clear.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides—they’re described as friendly, insightful, and eager to share their passion for Georgian culture and wine. Many note that the guides add value by explaining traditions, local history, and wine-making techniques, making the whole day more than just tastings.

The wine quality is another standout. From organic boutique wines to traditional Qvevri varieties, you’ll sample a diverse selection that reflects Georgia’s rich winemaking heritage. One guest summarized it well, saying, “the wines were very generous, and the wines we tried were excellent,” highlighting how much is packed into the day.

The lunch at the family-owned house is often called a highlight, with many guests feeling genuinely welcomed and enjoying home-cooked dishes made from local ingredients. This adds a warm, personal feel to the experience that many reviews cherish.

Travelers also appreciate the scenic drives and photo opportunities, especially at Gombori Pass. The combination of natural beauty, historic underground tunnels, and authentic local experiences offers a well-rounded look at Georgia’s wine traditions.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $185 per person, the tour offers significant value given the inclusiveness and depth of experiences. Considering the multiple winery visits, an authentic home lunch, tastings, transportation, and guide services, many guests feel it’s a worthwhile investment—especially if you’re serious about understanding Georgian wine and culture.

A few reviews mention it as “great value,” and others highlight the quality of the wines and the personal touch from guides. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about enjoying a tradition that spans thousands of years—all in one well-organized day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal if you’re passionate about wine, interested in local traditions, or want a comprehensive introduction to Kakheti’s wine scene. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy structured days packed with diverse experiences—wine tasting, authentic meals, scenic views, and cultural insights.

While it’s not particularly family-oriented unless your children are older (due to the full-day schedule), it suits couples, friends, or even solo travelers eager to dive into Georgia’s wine culture. Bear in mind, it’s a full day, so if you prefer slow-paced, leisurely afternoons, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

For anyone curious about Georgia’s historic wine traditions, this full-day private tour offers a rich, engaging, and very authentic experience. From tasting organic wines in boutique wineries to enjoying a warm home-cooked meal at a local family’s house, it’s a journey into the heart of Georgian hospitality and craftsmanship. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness make all the difference, transforming what could be just another tasting tour into a memorable cultural adventure.

If your goal is to see a variety of wineries and learn about traditional Georgian winemaking methods—especially in a private, tailored setting—this tour delivers on those fronts. It’s a great choice for wine lovers craving a deep dive, travelers eager to explore Georgia beyond Tbilisi, and anyone who appreciates genuine local hospitality.

Just remember, it is a long day, so come prepared for a bit of travel and lots of tasting. But if you’re ready for a comprehensive taste of Georgia’s wine and culture, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of stories—and bottles—to take home.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:30 am with hotel pickup, and returning in the evening.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package. The tour is private, so your group will be the only ones on board.

What’s the price per person?
It’s $185. This includes tastings at multiple wineries, a traditional Georgian lunch, and all transportation costs.

Are alcohol beverages included?
Yes, the tour includes tastings of traditional Georgian wines, including organic varieties and Qvevri wines. You’ll also sample Chacha, the local grape vodka.

Can children participate?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children.

Is the tour suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
The lunch is homemade and local, so inform the provider if you have specific dietary needs; however, most guests find the meal satisfying and authentic.

What makes this tour unique?
The underground tunnel winery, home-style lunch, organic boutique winery, and stunning mountain views make this a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Do guides speak multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is often operated by multilingual guides, making communication smooth.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers tend to book around 25 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

If Georgian wine, welcoming locals, and scenic landscapes appeal to you, this tour will give you a meaningful taste of everything that makes Kakheti special.