2 Days Private Organic Wine Tour to Kakheti Region via Rustavi and David Gareja

Exploring Georgia’s Vineyards and Heritage: A Review of the 2-Day Private Organic Wine Tour to Kakheti

This 2-day private tour offers a comprehensive dive into Georgia’s renowned wine culture, historic monasteries, and picturesque landscapes. Designed for travelers who want more than just a tasting, it combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and intimate wine experiences that showcase the country’s unique traditions. With customized private arrangements, this tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, informative journey without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail.

What makes this experience stand out for us is how it balances authentic farm visits, breathtaking scenery, and deep dives into Georgian history — all wrapped into an accessible package. The inclusion of organic wines and a chance to bond with local families during lunch truly enhances the sense of connection to Georgia’s rich wine-making roots. However, one thing to consider is the overall pace; it involves a fair amount of driving and activity, which might be tiring for those looking for a more leisurely, low-key day.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone craving an authentic taste of Georgia’s culture. If you’re eager to explore beyond Tbilisi’s borders and enjoy genuine interactions with locals, this trip promises a memorable mix of sights, flavors, and stories.

Key Points

• Private Tour Experience: Tailored for your group with no strangers, ensuring a personalized journey.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Visits to David Gareja and Bodbe Monastery provide historical depth.
• Wine Focused: Four tastings across different wineries highlight Georgia’s organic and traditional wine-making methods.
• Scenic Landscapes: Expect breathtaking mountain passes and charming towns like Sighnaghi.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family, emphasizing genuine Georgian hospitality.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines history, culture, wine, and extraordinary views into a well-paced two days.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Day 1: From Rustavi to Sighnaghi and Beyond

The adventure begins with a pickup in Tbilisi, which sets the tone for a seamless experience. You’ll travel through Rustavi, a city that echoes Georgia’s Soviet-era industrial past, with its abandoned factories offering an intriguing glimpse into recent history. It’s a stark contrast to the tranquil, lush landscapes you’ll encounter later.

The first major highlight is the David Gareja Monastery, founded in the 6th century by the monk David Garejeli. The monastery complex, perched in a semi-desert landscape, is a marvel of ancient architecture and spiritual history. Visitors are free to explore the extensive complex, appreciate the ancient frescoes, and feel the serenity that emanates from this religious site. Reviewers mention that the admission is free, but the real value lies in the atmosphere and historical significance.

Next, the tour stops at the Bodbe Monastery of St. Nino, an important religious site where the saint who brought Christianity to Georgia is buried. The basilica’s peaceful surroundings and lush gardens make it a calming visit. Here, visitors often comment on the spiritual ambiance and the chance to connect with Georgia’s early Christian roots.

A highlight of the day is a stroll through Sighnaghi, the so-called “Town of Love.” Its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and fortified walls are picture-perfect, especially with sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. Tourists love wandering the town, taking photos of the city walls, and soaking in the relaxed, romantic vibe.

The day wraps up with a visit to Cradle of Wine Marani, where organic wine production is the focus. Here you’ll taste a selection of wines produced with traditional and organic methods, often fermented in Qvevri — large clay vessels buried underground. Reviewers emphasize the quality and natural flavor of these wines, describing them as “delicious” and “authentic.” The winery visit lasts about 1.5 hours, including a brief introduction to Georgia’s ancient wine-making techniques.

Day 2: Deepening the Wine Experience and Scenic Return

The second day kicks off with a visit to Winery Khareba, famous for its underground wine cellar built into a former Soviet bomb shelter. Here, you’ll sample wines aged in Qvevri, experiencing Georgia’s traditional wine-making firsthand. A masterclass on making Churchkhela — the famous Georgian sausage-shaped candy soaked in grape juice — adds a fun, tactile element to the tasting. Reviewers mention the wines are fermented traditionally, with the underground setting adding a cool, slightly mysterious vibe.

Next, the tour moves to a family-owned winery operated by Vaxo Oqruashvili. This intimate visit includes tastings and a delicious Georgian lunch, often praised for its authenticity and homemade flavors. Guests note that the experience feels genuine and personal, with the opportunity to ask questions and learn about local wine traditions directly from the producer.

The afternoon includes a visit to Giorgi Gvardzelashvili’s organic winery in Kondoli. The focus here is on organic wines and Chacha, Georgia’s famous grape vodka. The tasting of three different wine types and the strong, clear Chacha offers a true taste of local craftsmanship. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the wines and mention the relaxed, friendly atmosphere at this family-run operation.

Finally, the journey back to Tbilisi involves a scenic drive through the Gombori Pass, reaching over 1,620 meters above sea level. The mountain vistas are stunning, especially as the sunlight hits the rugged terrain. It’s a perfect way to end the trip, offering a panoramic farewell to the landscape that makes Kakheti so special.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

One of the key strengths of this experience is the knowledgeable guides, like Tsotne, who bring extra personality and insight. Reviewers highlight how guides explain the history and significance of each site, making the experience richer. The wines are also a standout — organic, traditional, and personally selected — providing a real taste of Georgia’s natural wine scene.

The scenery throughout the trip is breathtaking, from mountain passes to charming town squares. The stops are well-chosen to balance cultural, historical, and scenic attractions, ensuring you get a rounded experience. Plus, the home-cooked lunch with a local family offers a heartfelt connection to Georgian hospitality.

Many travelers also appreciated the flexibility and exclusivity of this private tour, which allows for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention. The included four wine tastings and a hearty lunch deliver excellent value, especially considering the personalized experience away from crowded tourist spots.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits wine lovers eager to learn about Georgia’s organic production methods and traditional techniques. It’s also perfect for those interested in history and architecture, given the visits to two major monasteries. The scenic drives and picturesque towns will appeal to travelers who appreciate stunning landscapes and charming villages.

If you’re seeking an authentic, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide and a customized itinerary, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Kakheti’s cultural and vinicultural heritage without the stress of planning every detail.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a fair amount of driving and walking, so it may not be suited for those with limited mobility or those looking for a very relaxed, low-energy day.

Practical Information

The tour runs from 9:30 am daily, includes pickup and drop-off, and features breakfast at your hotel. The price of $340 per person reflects a well-rounded experience with all tastings, lunch, and accommodations included. Everything is organized by Traffic Travel LLC, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for travelers’ plans.

FAQs

• Is this tour private?
  Yes, it is exclusively for your group with no other travelers joining.

• What’s included in the price?
  Four wine tastings, a traditional Georgian lunch, accommodation with breakfast, and bottled water daily.

• How far in advance should I book?
  On average, travelers book about 11 days ahead, but it’s best to secure your spot early to guarantee availability.

• Are the visits suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
  Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to check with the provider about mobility concerns, as some sites involve walking and uneven terrain.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start.

• Does the tour include visits to both urban and rural areas?
  Yes, you’ll experience the industrial landscape of Rustavi, the religious significance of monasteries, quaint towns like Sighnaghi, and mountain passes.

• Are the wineries family-run?
  Many visits are to family-owned wineries, offering authentic, personal insights into Georgian wine-making.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and a light jacket for mountain areas are recommended.

• Is lunch vegetarian?
  The tour description emphasizes traditional Georgian food, and most local dishes can often be tailored to dietary preferences if requested in advance.

• Is there any age restriction?
  Most travelers can participate, but always check with the provider if traveling with young children or infants.

To sum it up, this private organic wine tour to Kakheti is a fantastic way to explore Georgia’s wine traditions, historical sites, and stunning landscapes in a relaxed, personalized setting. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, delicious food, and meaningful cultural insights. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a history enthusiast, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Georgia’s treasures with the comfort of private arrangements and expert guides.