Tbilisi: Pro Wine Tasting & Georgian Cooking Class from Chef

If you’re looking to combine culinary learning with wine tasting during your trip to Tbilisi, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Georgia’s famed food and wine scene. It’s a 2.5-hour activity that promises to teach you how to prepare authentic khinkali and khachapuri while sampling a broad selection of 34 Georgian wines. While it might seem a bit touristy at first glance, this experience is designed to be accessible, fun, and packed with authentic flavors—especially if you enjoy hands-on activities and local storytelling.

What we really appreciate is the carefully curated pairing of wines and dishes, along with the chance to take recipes home. However, some travelers might find the length and depth of the experience a little limited if they’re after a comprehensive culinary immersion. This tour suits those with a keen interest in Georgian cuisine, wine lovers eager for variety, and anyone wanting a relaxed, educational taste of Tbilisi’s food scene without breaking the bank.

Key Points

Authentic Georgian dishes: You learn to make khinkali and khachapuri, two of Georgia’s most iconic foods, in a cozy, well-equipped studio.
Extensive wine selection: Sample 34 varieties of Georgian wines, from big-name wineries to small family producers, guided by knowledgeable sommeliers.
Expert-guided experience: Hosted by professional chefs and wine guides, who share fascinating stories and culinary secrets throughout.
Practical takeaways: Recipe cards and a curated list of Tbilisi’s top eateries help you recreate the magic back home.
Value for money: At $106 per person, the experience offers a good taste of Georgian culture, especially with food, wine, and personalized tips included.
Limited duration: At just 2.5 hours, this is a quick but rich introduction—perfect if you’re short on time or want a sampler of Georgian delights.

The Experience Breakdown

The Venue and Atmosphere

The experience takes place in a cozy, well-equipped studio within a cafe-restaurant, designed specifically for culinary events. The setting feels intimate and welcoming, with enough space for small groups (typically shared with other travelers). The warm ambiance encourages conversation, laughter, and a relaxed vibe—ideal for those who prefer hands-on learning over sterile classroom settings.

The Wine Tasting

The journey begins with a guided tasting of 34 Georgian wines. This isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding what makes Georgian wine unique—be it the use of qvevri (clay vessels), indigenous grape varieties, or traditional production methods. Your guide, likely a sommelier, will walk you through each wine’s story, highlighting nuances and pairing suggestions.

A delicious Georgian cheese platter accompanies the wines, making the tasting more engaging and flavorful. Several reviews mention the quality of the wines as a highlight, with particular praise for the wide selection that ranges from well-known wineries to artisanal, small-scale producers.

One comment from a reviewer mentioned, “the wine tasting was the highlight, with an excellent mix of styles and stories behind each bottle,” which sums up the value of the guided approach.

The Cooking Class

Next, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Under the watchful eye of experienced chefs, you will learn to craft khinkali (meaty, juicy dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread). You choose between styles like Adjarian or Megrelian khachapuri, giving you a taste of regional differences.

The portions are generous—each pair of guests makes 1 khachapuri and about 5-6 khinkali—meaning you’ll have plenty to enjoy afterward. The process is interactive and fun, with the chefs sharing legends and culinary traditions that make the dishes come alive.

Guests appreciated hearing about the history and symbolism behind these dishes, which added depth to the experience. Once cooked, everyone sits down together to enjoy the warm, freshly prepared food, which is often praised as delicious and filling.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You receive a recipe card to recreate the dishes at home, and the tour also includes a curated guide to Tbilisi’s best cafes, bars, and restaurants—a helpful tip for further exploration. The 24-hour travel concierge service is a bonus, offering recommendations and assistance for reservations or special requests during your stay.

Private transportation isn’t included but can be requested for an extra fee, which is worth considering if you’re staying outside the city center or prefer convenience.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $106 per person, this tour offers a good balance of food, drink, education, and local insight. The wines alone, featuring 34 varieties, provide a broad sampling that would be difficult to replicate independently without extensive research or multiple visits. The hands-on approach ensures you leave with new skills, recipes, and a better appreciation of Georgian culinary traditions.

However, the experience’s brevity means it’s more of a tasting and learning session rather than an in-depth culinary course. If you’re after a comprehensive cooking immersion or a detailed wine exploration, you might find this a bit light. It’s also worth noting that transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying outside the immediate area.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Most reviews highlight a friendly, small-group atmosphere that encourages interaction. This setup allows for personalized attention from guides and chefs, making it more engaging than large, impersonal classes. The multilingual hosts make it accessible for international travelers, with languages including English, French, German, Russian, Georgian, and Armenian.

Timing and Duration

The 2.5-hour length makes it an easy add-on to a day’s sightseeing or other activities. Starting times are flexible, but be sure to check availability ahead of booking. The timing is perfect for a relaxed afternoon or early evening activity.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

What sets this experience apart is the focus on authenticity—from the traditional recipes to the detailed storytelling about Georgian wine and culinary heritage. Several participants mentioned that the guides shared legends and cultural insights, helping them connect more deeply with Georgia’s food scene.

Plus, the ability to purchase bottles directly at the venue appeals to wine enthusiasts wanting to bring home a taste of Georgia.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in food and wine who prefer a relaxed, interactive setting. It’s ideal for those keen to learn practical skills, like making khinkali and khachapuri, in a supportive environment. If you’re traveling with family members aged 8+ or enjoy small-group experiences, you’ll find this activity both educational and enjoyable.

However, if you’re after a deep dive into Georgian cuisine or top-tier wine tasting, you might want to supplement this with additional tours or visits to local wineries or eateries. It’s a fantastic introduction, but not necessarily exhaustive.

The Sum Up

This Pro Wine Tasting & Georgian Cooking Class offers a relaxed yet insightful way to explore Georgia’s culinary treasures. The combination of 34 wines and hands-on dish preparation makes it a well-rounded experience, especially for those eager to take recipes home and learn about local wines. The guides’ storytelling adds warmth and authenticity, making it much more than just a cooking lesson.

While the duration is short, this experience provides excellent value, especially with the inclusion of recipe cards and expert guidance. It suits curious travelers, food lovers, and wine enthusiasts who appreciate a personal touch and a taste of Georgian tradition in a friendly setting.

If you’re hoping for a fun, educational activity that makes you feel more connected to Georgia’s food and wine culture, this experience is a solid choice—especially if you want to avoid overly commercialized tours and enjoy a more authentic vibe.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for kids aged 8 and above. The experience is interactive and engaging, making it a good family activity.

What languages are available?
Guides and hosts speak English, French, German, Russian, Georgian, and Armenian, so language barriers are minimized.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, transportation is not included but can be requested for an additional fee, making it flexible depending on your location.

What’s the typical duration of the experience?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a short but comprehensive taste of Georgian food and wine.

Can I buy bottles of wine at the venue?
Yes, you can purchase bottles directly at the location, which is a great way to bring some Georgian flavors home.

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small-group settings and friendly guides make it easy for solo travelers to join in and interact.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This experience is a delightful way to get a quick yet authentic taste of Georgian culinary and wine culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or simply curious about Georgia’s traditions, it offers both education and enjoyment in a friendly, approachable setting.