Wine & Dine group tour from Kutaisi

From the moment you step into this 4-hour guided experience, it’s clear that this isn’t your average winery visit. Instead, it offers a glimpse into Georgia’s deep-rooted tradition of winemaking, combined with a hearty local lunch and warm, family-run hospitality. The tour is designed to showcase not only the impressive array of wines and Chacha but also the genuine warmth of the Abuladze family in Bagdati, making it a compelling choice for those wanting to connect more authentically with Georgian culture.

One of the best things about this tour is the personal touch. Visiting a winery run by young female winemakers, Baia and her sister Gvatsa, adds a refreshing perspective to Georgia’s wine scene. The chance to learn about their methods, see the vineyard firsthand, and taste their carefully crafted wines creates a memorable experience. On the flip side, the tour’s schedule — especially the 100-minute traditional Georgian lunch — might feel a bit packed for those wanting more relaxed, unhurried tasting sessions.

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who love good food, authentic stories, and local flavors. If you’re curious about Georgia’s wine traditions beyond the big-name wineries, and enjoy meeting passionate local producers, this tour will resonate. However, those seeking a more in-depth, leisurely wine-tasting day might find the 4-hour format a bit brisk.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Winery Visit: Meet young female winemakers Baia and Gvatsa, and see their vineyard and cellar firsthand.
• Diverse Tasting Experience: Sample three types of wine plus Chacha, Georgia’s signature spirit.
• Homemade Georgian Lunch: Enjoy a generous, homemade meal prepared by Baia’s mom, featuring traditional Imereian dishes.
• Efficient Schedule: The tour covers everything from vineyard visits to tastings and lunch within 4 hours.
• Friendly Guides & Accessibility: Conducted in English with a live guide, the tour is accessible and well-organized.
• Value for Money: Combines sightseeing, tastings, and a hearty meal at a reasonable price point.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off at 13:00 from the central square of Kutaisi, making it easy for travelers based in the city. The journey to Bagdati takes approximately 50 minutes by comfortable van, giving you a brief window to relax or chat with fellow travelers. The transportation is straightforward, and the pick-up point is conveniently located, removing any guesswork about logistics.

Visiting Baias Wine in Bagdati

Once you arrive at Baias Wine in the village of Obcha, you immediately sense the warmth of the family’s hospitality. The hosts, Baia and her sister Gvatsa, are eager to share their passion. Their family’s vineyard, just behind the house, offers a lovely glimpse of the landscape that nurtures the grapes. You’ll love the way they take pride in their work, emphasizing their focus on quality and tradition.

During the guided tour, Baia and Gvatsa walk you through their wine production process, explaining their choice of grape varieties like Tsolikouri, Krakhuna, Aladasturi, Ojaleshi, and Otskhanuri Sapere. These names tell you this isn’t mass-produced wine but rather a curated selection of Georgian varietals that showcase regional diversity. Their dedication to preserving local grape varieties adds a layer of authenticity that’s often missing in commercial wineries.

Wine Tasting & Chacha

The tasting room is intimate and relaxed, perfect for absorbing the aromas and flavors of the wines. You’ll sample three different wines, each with its own unique character, from light and crisp whites to more robust reds. The presence of Chacha — Georgia’s traditional grape spirit — adds a spirited twist, especially for those curious about local distilling traditions.

Reviewers note that the wines are notably good, with one mentioning that the “selection was excellent, especially the whites”. The fact that the winemakers produce such a variety indicates a dedication to quality rather than quantity, making this tasting a genuine reflection of Georgia’s diverse wine landscape.

Georgian Lunch: A Delicious Feast

Following the tastings, everyone gathers around a large table laden with homemade Georgian dishes. Baia’s mom prepares what many reviewers describe as “the best Imereian food” — a hearty, flavorful expression of regional cuisine. Expect dishes like khachapuri, tender grilled meats, fresh salads, and possibly some local cheeses. The 100-minute lunch allows plenty of time to savor the food, share stories, and enjoy the company.

Many guests comment that the meal is a highlight, not just for its taste but for its authenticity. It’s a chance to step into a local home and see how Georgians truly dine — family style, generous, and welcoming.

Returning to Kutaisi

After a satisfying meal, the group departs around 17:00, heading back to Kutaisi. The return journey also takes roughly 50 minutes, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or chat about your favorite wines.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Price & Value: While the tour’s cost isn’t explicitly listed, it offers a solid mix of cultural insight, tasting, and a hearty meal at a price that’s reasonable for the value received. The inclusion of transport, guided tour, tastings, and lunch makes it an overall good deal, especially considering the authentic experience and personal touch.

Group Size & Accessibility: The tour is typically operated as a group, fostering a friendly atmosphere. It is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for travelers with mobility needs. The guide speaks English, making it easy to ask questions and learn more about the wines and traditions.

Timing & Flexibility: Starting at 13:00, the tour fits well into a daytime agenda. The 4-hour duration is perfect for those looking for a taste of Georgian wine without dedicating an entire day. Options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund add flexibility for planning.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are recommended for the vineyard walk. Since the experience involves wine tasting and a hearty meal, moderate alcohol consumption is expected — plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a lover of authentic local experiences with a focus on wine, food, and family stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who want to see the genuine side of Georgian winemaking, beyond the industrial wineries. It’s also perfect if you enjoy delicious homemade food and want to meet passionate local producers.

Travelers seeking a short, meaningful excursion from Kutaisi will appreciate the well-organized schedule and relaxed pace. It suits foodies, wine enthusiasts, and culture seekers wanting to connect with Georgia’s traditions in a friendly, intimate setting.

However, those craving a more extensive or leisurely wine tour might prefer to combine this experience with other activities or tours in the region.

The Sum Up

This Wine & Dine group tour from Kutaisi offers a genuine taste of Georgian hospitality, family-run winemaking, and hearty cuisine. It bridges the gap between tasting and storytelling, making it ideal for travelers who want to learn about Georgia’s wine traditions in an authentic setting. With a warm welcome, excellent wine selection, and delicious homemade food, it’s a memorable way to spend an afternoon in the region.

The tour’s value lies in its balance — it’s intimate enough to provide personal insights, yet structured enough to cover all the essentials comfortably. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local craftsmanship and genuine cultural experiences. If you’re after a taste of Georgia that goes beyond the surface, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Do I need to know anything about wine before the tour? No prior knowledge is necessary. The guides will walk you through the process and help you understand each wine and spirit.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is primarily geared toward adult guests, especially given the wine tastings. However, children accompanying the group might enjoy the vineyard visit and the family atmosphere.

How long does the wine tasting last? The tasting of three wines plus Chacha lasts about 30 minutes, giving you enough time to savor and discuss the flavors.

Are vegetarian options available for the lunch? The menu is traditional Georgian fare. If you have any dietary restrictions, it’s best to check in advance, but generally, the meal is hearty and meat-inclusive.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the experience provider states it is accessible for wheelchairs.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the vineyard walk. Dress appropriately for the weather, as part of the tour is outdoors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price? The tour fee covers the winery visit, guided explanation, wine and Chacha tastings, and a homemade Georgian lunch.

How do I get to the meeting point? The tour starts from the central square of Kutaisi, making it easy to reach from most accommodations in the city.

Is there an option to pay later? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay nothing until closer to the tour date, offering flexibility in planning.

This tour combines the best elements of Georgian wine, hearty cuisine, and warm hospitality, making it a worthwhile addition to any Kutaisi itinerary. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, the authentic, hands-on approach here will leave you with more than just tasting notes — you’ll take home genuine stories and flavors of Georgia.