EXPLORE ALL OF OUR GROUP TRIPS

Georgia

Georgia Wine + Culture with BottlesUp!

Discover Georgia's wine heritage: Tbilisi's cobblestone streets to ancient qvevri cellars, Caucasus peaks, and traditional Supra feasts.

BOOK NOW
kseniiaporoshkovaZvSP1FlqSZsunsplash

Overview

This immersive Georgian adventure begins in Tbilisi, exploring its historic and vibrant heart before venturing to Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital, for its UNESCO-listed monasteries and early encounters with natural winemaking. The journey then shifts west to Kutaisi, blending visits to bustling markets with unique wine experiences, including traditional Qvevri craftsmanship and regional culinary classes. You’ll explore the natural beauty of Martvili Canyon and the archaeological wonders near Kutaisi.  The itinerary then leads to the dramatic Caucasus Mountains in Kazbegi, offering scenic drives and hikes to iconic churches. Concluding in the renowned Kakheti wine region, guests will delve into diverse winemaking traditions, from ancient cathedrals to family-run vineyards and charming towns like Sighnaghi, before returning to Tbilisi for a grand farewell Supra feast.

Itinerary

Explore Georgia's 8,000-year winemaking heritage on this 12-day journey from Tbilisi's historic streets to the dramatic Caucasus Mountains. Meet pioneering natural winemakers, learn ancient qvevri techniques, hike to mountaintop monasteries, and share traditional feasts with local families. Discover UNESCO sites, taste exceptional wines in family-run cellars, and experience Georgia's legendary hospitality—culminating in a farewell Supra feast with polyphonic singing and endless toasts.

Previous

Next

Unsplash_ninekh_lfYV4tgecow

Tbilisi

Day 1: Arrive in Georgia

Welcome to Georgia! Upon arrival, collect your luggage and transfer to Tbilisi's city center to check into your hotel.

Begin your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the Old City, discovering the historic Metekhi Church and famous Sulphur Baths before taking a scenic cable car ride to Narikala Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy lunch at your leisure, savoring authentic Georgian cuisine.

Optional Activity: Visit the Tbilisi National Museum to explore the stunning Gold Treasury and fascinating exhibitions bringing Georgia's rich history to life.

Conclude your day with a welcome wine tasting at Warehouse, one of Tbilisi's premier wine destinations. Enjoy a comparative tasting of natural international and Georgian varietals guided by a sommelier, followed by a group dinner featuring traditional Georgian dishes.

Overnight: Rooms Hotel, Tbilisi

Included

Wine Tasting

Welcome Dinner

Unsplash_zanlazarevic_WrueFKpTlQs

Kutaisi

Day 2: Tbilisi to Kutaisi

After breakfast, journey to Mtskheta, Georgia's ancient capital, to explore two iconic UNESCO sites: the 6th-century Jvari Monastery and the stunning Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, said to house Christ's robe.

Meet Iago Bitarishvili, a pioneer in natural winemaking, for a cellar tour and lunch paired with his elegant Chinuri wines. En route to Kutaisi, stop to meet Zaliko Bozhadze, a legendary qvevri artisan who will demonstrate how these traditional clay winemaking vessels are crafted by hand.

In Terjola, join inspiring young winemakers Keto Puturidze and Gogita Makaridze for a hands-on cooking class, followed by dinner at Restaurant Rdzlebi where you'll savor your creations alongside Makaridze wines.

Overnight: The Communal Hotel, Kutaisi

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Wine Tastings

Dinner

Unsplash_nika9447_cnuj4n16yv4

Day 3: The Samegrelo Region

After breakfast, explore the vibrant Kutaisi Farmers' Market, where bustling aisles overflow with fresh vegetables, aromatic nuts, exotic spices, and local cheeses—a fantastic opportunity to connect with locals and sample seasonal produce.

Journey to Samegrelo, a region renowned for distinct indigenous grape varieties, to meet winemaker Zaza Gagua. Tour his cellar, explore his winemaking philosophy, and enjoy a tasting paired with lunch.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Martvili Canyon on a serene boat trip along the emerald Abasha River. Visit the Museum of Local Lore and the historic Martvili Monastery with its beautiful medieval murals.

For dinner, meet Keto Ninidze, an inspiring young female winemaker, for a fusion-style meal perfectly paired with her exquisite wines.

Overnight: The Communal Hotel, Kutaisi

Unsplash_jassyonyae_1gBUXhf0PtA

Day 4: Vintners and Vagabonds and The Village of Nakhshirghele

After breakfast, enjoy a hike to discover incredible panoramic views and ancient cultural sites before another fantastic day of wine tasting and exploration.

Journey to Zeindari village to meet Aidan Raftery, an Englishman whose path to Georgia wound through Australian vineyards and restaurants. Taste his wines, hear his captivating story, and enjoy lunch with Aidan and Elene, followed by a tour of his marani—a fascinating blend of traditional Georgian and Western winemaking techniques.

Visit the Vani Museum to view stunning archaeological finds from the 1st millennium BC. Before returning to Kutaisi, stop in Nakhshirghele village to meet Ramaz Nikoladze, tour his vineyards, and sample his exquisite wines with light snacks.

Evening and dinner at leisure.

Overnight: The Communal Hotel, Kutaisi

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Wine tasting

Unsplash_parulava_o2zBDcBTu8g

Day 5: Kutaisi to Kartli

After breakfast, journey to the Kartli region to meet Andro Barnovi, visionary founder of Wine Artisans. Andro will guide you through his cellar and host a meal paired with his exceptional wines.

Explore the remarkable Uplistsikhe cave complex, an ancient "Fortress of God" carved into a rocky plateau dating back to the 1st millennium BC. Discover echoing halls, winding corridors, chambers for pagan worship, an intricate water supply system, a secret tunnel, and the remains of Georgia's oldest theater.

Visit Ateni Sioni, a 7th-century church in the Ateni Valley featuring stunning 11th-12th century frescoes.

Enjoy time at leisure before a rustic, freshly prepared dinner.

Overnight: Nika Vacheishvili Hotel & Wine Cellar

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Wine Tastings

Unsplash_tomonine_ApoYbda6_3Y

Day 6: Journey to Kazbegi

After breakfast, journey towards the majestic Khevi mountain region along the scenic Georgian Military Highway, the historic 19th-century road connecting Georgia and Russia.

Visit Chateau Mukhrani, an impressive Georgian royal estate combining vineyards, a modern winery, a magnificent 19th-century palace, and rich winemaking heritage. Enjoy a vineyard tour and guided tasting with their sommelier, followed by lunch at a local family-run restaurant.

Continue to Kazbegi with a stop at the impressive Ananuri complex (16th-18th centuries) and frequent photo opportunities as you drive through the breathtaking Greater Caucasus Mountains.

Relax at your hotel, enjoy the panoramic pool, and dinner at leisure.

Overnight: Rooms Hotel & Spa, Kazbegi

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Wine Tasting

Unsplash_marishkunebi_uLN4kU5XjuU

Day 7: Hike Mount Kazbek

Transfer Time: +/- 1 hour

Enjoy breakfast, then embark on a scenic hike to the iconic Gergeti Trinity Church. This small 14th-century monastery is perched majestically atop a mountain, offering panoramic, awe-inspiring views of the surrounding area and the towering peaks of the Caucasus. The hike itself is a rewarding 2 to 3-hour journey through a picturesque forest, promising delightful vistas at every turn.

Following your invigorating hike, we will journey to Tsdo village, a small, historic settlement nestled dramatically at the very top of Darial Canyon. Here, you'll meet a gracious local host who will share fascinating insights into the area's rich history and treat you to a delicious, authentic home-cooked family meal. Once lunch concludes, you will head back to your hotel for some time at leisure. 

After a short rest in the evening, savor dinner at the local restaurant Café Maisi. This charming local restaurant nestled in Gergeti village, Kazbegi, offers authentic Georgian cuisine. It provides a cozy ambiance with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal spot to savor traditional dishes after exploring the area. 

Overnight: Rooms Hotel & Spa, Kazbegi

Unsplash_giga_goriashvili_Lf__9L2SHVQ

Day 8: Kakheti, The Heart of Georgian Wine

Transfer Time: +/- 3 hours, 30 minutes

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and travel towards Kakheti, Georgia's most renowned and picturesque wine-growing region, famous for its ancient winemaking traditions and stunning landscapes of vineyards against the backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. After a few hours' drive through the scenic Tianeti mountains, you'll arrive in the charming village of Saniore to visit Lagazi Wine Cellar. 

Here we will meet the couple who started this cellar and tour their vineyard and farm, before participating in a cooking class where you will learn to make traditional Georgian dishes with farm-to-table ingredients and some of the grower’s best wines! 

Next, visit the majestic Alaverdi Cathedral, an 11th-century monument standing proudly in the heart of the Alazani Valley, with the dramatic peaks of the Greater Caucasus as its backdrop. This cathedral has served as a vital religious center for the region for centuries. 

Before arriving at your hotel, make a special stop for an exclusive tasting at Tchotiashvili Winery. 

Tchotiashvili Vineyards, nestled in Georgia's ancient Kakheti region, is dedicated to reviving indigenous grape varieties and crafting natural wines using the centuries-old qvevri method. Winemakers Kakha and Ucha Tchotiashvili meticulously oversee every step, from hand-cultivating organic vineyards to personally inspecting each limited-production bottle, ensuring precise, clean flavors that honor their rich family legacy.

After your wine tasting, you will arrive at your destination, the picturesque Vazisubani Estate. After you check in, you can enjoy some leisure time by the pool as well as sample some of the incredible wines this estate has to offer. Enjoy your evening and dinner at leisure. 

Overnight: Vazisubani Estate, Kakhe, Region

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Wine Tasting

IMG_8367copy

Day 9: Journey to Sighnaghi

Transfer Time: +/- 2 hours

Spend your morning at leisure before checking out of the hotel at 11am. Today, your journey continues to the legendary Pheasant's Tears winery, founded by John Wurdeman, where you'll delve into their vineyards and traditional marani. Savor a delightful light lunch paired with John's exceptional natural wines, all while overlooking the magnificent vineyards, the expansive Alazani Valley, and the dramatic Greater Caucasus Mountains.

A short, scenic drive brings you to Sighnaghi, a small and charming 18th-century town often called the "City of Love." After checking into your hotel, take time to explore Sighnaghi on foot. Wander along its twisting, narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the town's signature colorful wooden balconies and the stunning, uninterrupted views of the Alazani Valley stretching below. 

Next, drive to the scenic Lost Ridge Inn Brewery and Ranch. Prepare for an evening of immersive activities, including invigorating horseback riding through picturesque landscapes (optional), a hands-on experience of traditional bread baking, a delicious dinner, and a refreshing beer tasting. 

After a day of sightseeing and wine tasting, you will return to Vazisubani for an evening at leisure. 

Overnight: Vazisubani Estate, Kakhe, Region

Unsplash_mostafa_meraji_x_v1_1BAbu0

Day 10: Return to Tbilisi

Transfer Time: +/- 4 hours

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your journey back to Tbilisi, with a captivating stop en route at the David Gareji Monastery complex in a semi desert. 

Witness hundreds of cells, intricate churches, communal refectories, and humble living quarters all remarkably hewn directly into the steep rock face of Mount Gareja. Founded in the 6th century by the revered Assyrian Monk, Saint David, this monastic complex steadily expanded over centuries, showcasing an incredible feat of human devotion and engineering. You'll specifically explore the ancient Lavra Monastery, dating back to the 6th century.

On our journey back to the capital, you will stop in the charming village of Sagarejo, where you will visit a family-run vineyard. Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting while gaining a local’s perspective on the future of wine and tourism in this incredible region! 

Finally, you will find yourself back in Tbilisi, where your incredible journey started! Enjoy an afternoon at leisure exploring the city on your own. Dinner this evening will be at your leisure. 

Overnight: Rooms Hotel, Tbilisi

Unsplash_nesengup_emWzYc5XC_A

Day 11: Kurko Woods

Transfer Time: +/- 50 minutes

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a morning at leisure exploring Tbilisi before meeting back at the hotel and departing for an afternoon surrounded by the natural beauty of Kurko Woods. 

This equestrian ranch is a nature lover’s dream! This experience seamlessly blends the rugged natural beauty of Georgia’s landscape with the warm hospitality and prideful wine making process that you’ve become so familiar with along this journey. Enjoy hiking or even a horseback ride, if you’re feeling adventurous, before a tasting of Chacha, a locally distilled liquor. Later, sit down together to enjoy a freshly prepared light lunch.  

After an afternoon in nature, you will return to the bustling city of Tbilisi to explore the city on your own, before meeting together one last time for a truly special farewell Supra! 

A traditional Georgian "Supra" is far more than a meal; it is a lavish, multi-course feast characterized by abundant food, free-flowing wine, and heartfelt toasts. In keeping with tradition, our feast will also feature Georgian polyphonic singing. A fitting end to a spectacular adventure through Georgia. Cheers to the trip of a lifetime!

Overnight: Rooms Hotel, Tbilisi

Included

Breakfast

Light lunch

Chacha tasting

Dinner

Unsplash_z734923105_OnXvKZldSJ0

Day 12: Depart Tbilisi for USA

Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel. From here, you will transfer to the international airport outside the city center. Board your flight with service back to the United States. 

Included

Breakfast

Highlights

UNESCO Monasteries & Natural Wine Pioneer

UNESCO Monasteries & Natural Wine Pioneer

Explore the 6th-century Jvari Monastery and 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, then meet natural winemaking pioneer Iago Bitarishvili for cellar tours and Chinuri wine tastings.

Qvevri Craftsmanship & Farm-to-Table Cooking

Qvevri Craftsmanship & Farm-to-Table Cooking

Meet legendary artisan Zaliko Bozhadze to learn traditional clay vessel-making, then join winemakers for a hands-on cooking class paired with natural wines at Restaurant Rdzlebi.

Martvili Canyon Boat Journey

Martvili Canyon Boat Journey

Glide through emerald waters on a serene boat trip along the Abasha River, then explore the historic Martvili Monastery with its stunning medieval murals.

Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church

Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church

Trek through picturesque forests to the iconic 14th-century monastery perched atop Mount Kazbek, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Pheasant's Tears Winery Experience

Pheasant's Tears Winery Experience

Visit John Wurdeman's legendary natural winery for cellar tours, light lunch, and wine tastings overlooking the Alazani Valley and Greater Caucasus backdrop.

Traditional Supra Farewell Feast

Traditional Supra Farewell Feast

Conclude your journey with an authentic Georgian Supra, a lavish multi-course feast with abundant food, free-flowing wine, heartfelt toasts, and traditional polyphonic singing.

Hosts

This journey to the birthplace of wine brings together two passionate experts who share a love for authentic travel, incredible wine, and meaningful connections.

Melissa Zeman – BottlesUp!, Chicago

Melissa Zeman – BottlesUp!, Chicago

Since opening BottlesUp! in 2019, Melissa has built a community-focused wine shop in Chicago dedicated to discovering exceptional bottles and bringing people together. Her passion for natural wines and authentic experiences led her straight to Georgia—the cradle of winemaking—where she's spent years building relationships with local vintners and uncovering the stories behind ancient qvevri wines. Melissa's infectious enthusiasm and deep wine knowledge make every tasting feel like you're sharing a bottle with an old friend who just happens to know everything about what you're drinking.

Christian Lewis – Limitless Planet Travel

Christian Lewis – Limitless Planet Travel

As Travel Director for Limitless Planet, Christian designs journeys that prioritize authentic connection over cookie-cutter tourism. His collaboration with Melissa was instant—both share a philosophy that the best travel experiences come from supporting local communities and diving deep into culture rather than skimming the surface. Christian personally curated every winemaker visit, accommodation, and mountain hike on this itinerary, ensuring travelers experience Georgia the way locals do—with warmth, genuine hospitality, and access to places most Western travelers never discover.

Accommodations

4*Hotel in Kutaisi

4*Hotel in Kutaisi

A charming boutique hotel in a beautifully restored 19th-century townhouse featuring a serene seasonal outdoor pool, lush garden, and celebrated restaurant highlighting local Western Georgian cuisine.


5* Hotel in Kakheti

5* Hotel in Kakheti

A restored 19th-century noble residence set amidst 35 hectares of vineyards featuring 19 uniquely designed rooms with Victorian-era furnishings, wine tastings, and traditional Kakhetian cuisine with modern flair.

4* Hotel in Kazbegi

4* Hotel in Kazbegi

A striking design hotel in the dramatic High Caucasus Mountains offering panoramic views of Mount Kazbek, featuring an indoor pool with mountain vistas, spa, and exceptional dining with local ingredients.

5* Hotel in Kakheti Region

5* Hotel in Kakheti Region

A restored 19th-century noble residence set amidst 35 hectares of vineyards featuring 19 uniquely designed rooms with Victorian-era furnishings, wine tastings, and traditional Kakhetian cuisine with modern flair.

What's included

What's Included

Accommodations for the duration of the tour

Daily Continental Breakfast

All private transfers mentioned above

All private guides, tours and entrance fee's mentioned above

all meals and wine tasting mentioned above

Travelling like a local with some amazing humans!

International flights

Travel Insurance

Meals, unless otherwise states

Tips for guides and drivers

Personal Expenses

FAQs

• 25% cancellation fee for all cancellations

• 50% cancellation fee after January 8th, 2026

• 100% cancellation fee after March 8th, 2026

Georgia Wine + Culture with BottlesUp!

Georgia · 12 nights

BOOK NOW

Get in Touch

Interested in this experience? Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you soon.

* indicates required
() - (###) ###-####
/ / ( dd / mm / yyyy )
/ / ( dd / mm / yyyy )