Winery Old Mukhrani

Introduction

If you’re curious about Georgia’s legendary wine culture but don’t want to spend hours on a tour, the Old Mukhrani Winery offers a compact, authentic glimpse into traditional and modern winemaking. We’ve looked into this experience and it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting to combine a taste of history with some high-quality wines, all without breaking the bank.

Two things stand out about this tour: first, their specialty in Kvevri wines, which are fermented and aged using ancient clay vessels, adding a truly authentic flavor to every sip. Second, the chance to explore indigenous grape varieties like Saperavi and Chinuri, which you won’t find anywhere else. That said, one possible downside is the two-hour duration, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re keen to linger and soak it all in.

This experience seems particularly well-suited for curious travelers interested in Georgia’s unique wine traditions and those wanting a behind-the-scenes look at how local spirits like Chacha and Vodka are made. If you enjoy expert-led tastings and a personal touch, Old Mukhrani could be a real highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Georgian wine experience blending ancient and modern techniques
• Specializes in Kvevri wines, fermented in traditional clay vessels
• Includes expert-led tastings and vineyard tours
• Offers local spirits such as Chacha and Vodka
• Focus on indigenous varieties like Saperavi and Chinuri
• Price of $35 per person for a 2-hour, private group experience

What is Old Mukhrani Winery?

Old Mukhrani Winery is a boutique operation located in the historic village of Mukhrani, Georgia. It’s not a massive industrial winery but a carefully maintained space where tradition and modern craftsmanship come together. With its own small vineyards, they prioritize quality over quantity, making each bottle special.

The winery’s standout feature is their commitment to indigenous grape varieties grown in eco-friendly conditions and harvested by hand. These grapes include Saperavi (a deep red), Chinuri (white), and Mukhamtsvane. The focus on rare grapes means you’re tasting a genuinely authentic Georgian product that can’t be easily found elsewhere.

Their signature product is Kvevri wine, which is fermented and stored in buried clay vessels, a technique dating back thousands of years. This method produces wines with distinctive earthy, natural flavors that reflect the true terroir of the region. The winery also produces high-grade Chacha (a traditional grape spirit) and Vodka, adding to the local spirit lineup.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off in Mukhrani, giving a sense of the region’s historic significance. Over two hours, you’ll participate in a vineyard and cellar tour, which is quite insightful if you’re into winemaking processes. The guide will explain how traditional Kvevri wines are made and aged, giving you a real appreciation for what makes Georgian wine unique.

After the tour, the highlight is a wine tasting featuring four different types: a Kvevri red, a white, an amber, and a special spirit. These are accompanied by a traditional dried fruit platter, which balances and enhances the flavors. Guests consistently note that the tastings are led by knowledgeable sommeliers, who happily answer questions and share their expertise.

The tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s also about learning. You’ll get insight into Georgia’s winemaking history and learn how ancient techniques are still relevant today. The inclusion of spirits like Chacha and Vodka offers a broader perspective on Georgian distillation traditions.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Mukhrani, the tour begins with a brief overview of the region’s historical importance. You’ll then move to the vineyards, where you can see the varieties grown in eco-friendly conditions. The guide explains the harvesting process, highlighting the care taken to select the best grapes for their signature wines.

Next, you’ll descend into the cellar, where the magic of Kvevri winemaking happens. Here, you’ll observe clay vessels buried underground, sometimes described as the soul of Georgian winemaking. The guide will describe how these vessels ferment and age the wine, giving you a sense of the craftsmanship involved.

The tasting session follows, where you sample four wines: red, white, amber, and a spirit. Expect to learn about tasting notes and what makes each wine special. Many guests mention that the expert guidance really enhances the experience, turning a simple tasting into a lesson in Georgian winemaking.

Finally, the tour concludes with some time to ask questions and perhaps purchase bottles directly from the winery, especially if you fall in love with a particular style.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $35 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering it includes a guided vineyard and cellar tour, four wines, and a traditional snack platter. Compared to larger, more commercial tours, the intimacy and focus on indigenous varieties make this a worthwhile investment for wine lovers or anyone interested in Georgia’s rich traditions.

Some reviews mention that the small group setting creates a cozy, personalized atmosphere, allowing for interaction with the guide and more tailored insights. If you’re looking for a quality experience that balances price and authenticity, this tour hits that mark.

Additional Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, keep in mind that it’s a two-hour private group. If you’re expecting a long, leisurely afternoon, you might find the time a bit tight — but for most, it’s enough to get a good sense of the winery’s offerings. Accessibility is noted as wheelchair friendly, which is a plus.

Booking is flexible because of the free cancellation policy — cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. This makes it easier to fit into your plans, especially if your schedule is still flexible.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Georgia’s unique Kvevri wines and indigenous grape varieties. Travelers who appreciate authentic, small-batch spirits will enjoy sampling Chacha and Vodka as well. It’s suitable for those interested in history, tradition, and craftsmanship, especially if you enjoy guided tastings led by knowledgeable experts.

It’s also a good fit if you’re looking for a private, intimate setting—perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personalized experience. If you prefer large, boisterous tours or are on a tight schedule, this might feel a bit limited in scope. But for those who value quality over quantity, it’s a worthwhile stop.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a straightforward, authentic look into Georgian winemaking, Old Mukhrani offers a compelling package. The focus on traditional Kvevri wines, indigenous grape varieties, and spirits makes it stand out from more commercialized options. For $35, you get a guided tour, tastings of four wines, and insights into a centuries-old craft—an experience that’s both educational and delicious.

This tour will likely appeal most to wine lovers and those curious about Georgia’s unique spirits. The personalized atmosphere and focus on quality and tradition make it a memorable addition to your trip, especially if craft, history, and authenticity matter to you.

If you’re looking for a small-group experience that offers real insight into Georgia’s winemaking heritage, this could be just what you need. It’s not flashy, but that’s part of its charm, providing a genuine taste of Georgia’s storied wine culture.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for those with mobility challenges.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts about two hours, including vineyard and cellar visits and tastings.

Are drinks included in the price? Yes, the tour includes a tasting of four different wines and local spirits like Chacha and Vodka.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers good flexibility.

Is the experience private? Yes, it’s conducted as a private group, making it more personalized and comfortable.

What types of wines will I taste? Expect to try red, white, and amber wines, plus spirits, all crafted using traditional Georgian methods.

Is it worth the price? Considering the guided experience, quality wines, spirits, and the intimate setting, $35 is quite reasonable for this level of insight and tasting.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply curious about Georgia’s legendary wine traditions, the Old Mukhrani Winery tour offers a straightforward, engaging way to experience the country’s rich viticulture heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: