9 Top Wine Regions to Explore in Georgia

Georgia, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea, is not only rich in culture and history but also home to some of the oldest winemaking traditions in the world. With over 8,000 years of wine heritage, this small yet captivating country offers a wine experience like no other. For travelers passionate about viticulture, food, and authentic experiences, travel to Georgia promises an unforgettable journey through lush vineyards, ancient cellars, and charming villages where wine is a way of life.

Here are the 9 top wine regions to explore in Georgia that beautifully blend history, taste, and culture:

1. Kakheti – The Heart of Georgian Wine

The most well-known and popular wine region in Georgia that can be regarded as the birthplace of Georgian viticulture is Kakheti. This region is in the eastern side of the country, and it is encompassed by Greater Caucasus mountains and it is fertile due to the valleys.
Highlights:

• The traditional Saperavi (red) and Rkatsiteli (white) grapes are grown there.
• Discover the ancient process of wine production using clay pots, which are buried in the ground.
• The wineries to visit: Kindzmarauli Corporation, Pheasant Tears, and Shumi Winery.
• Important cities: Telavi and Sighnaghi, the latter having panorama views and beautiful streets.

2. Kartli The Central Wine Corridor

West of Tbilisi is Kartli, a less touristy but no less significant region of the country, compared to Kakheti. European styled and traditional Georgian wine is produced in the region.
Highlights:

• Famous sparkling wines and experimental blends.
• This is where grapes such as Chinuri, Tavkveri, and Shavkapito grow.
• Find monasteries hundreds of years old and ancient wine cellars.

3. Imereti -Westernized Wine

Imereti is located in the West of Georgia and has more moderate climate and its own types of grapes. This region has a variation of winemaking to the eastern style in that the qvevri are smaller and the fermentation is less in contact with the skin.
Highlights:

• Common grapes: Tsolikouri, Krakhuna and Tsitska.
• See the wineries in Kutaisi, the second biggest city in Georgia.
• Reputed to invigorate whites with clean acidity and flowers.

4. Racha-Lechkhumi – The Land of Semi-Sweet Reds

Tucked away in the northwestern highlands, Racha-Lechkhumi is a hidden gem. The region is celebrated for its natural beauty and distinct wines, especially semi-sweet reds.
Highlights:

• Known for Khvanchkara, a semi-sweet red wine popular with Stalin.
• Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes.
• It is the best place to be in case one loves nature, as it has scenic drives and trekking routes.

5. Adjara - Subtropical Influence Coastal Wines

This is the southwest coastline and it is more popular with its beaches and the city of Batumi. Nevertheless, it has a modest, yet increasing wine culture.
Highlights:

• Subtropical climate contributes to unique flavor profiles.
• Indigenous grape varieties like Chkhaveri produce light, crisp wines.
• Combine wine tasting with a beach holiday in Batumi.

6. Guria – An Emerging Wine Territory

Guria is not as commercially developed but it is attracting both wine enthusiasts and boutique producers. The area is concentrated on small-batch and organic productions.
Highlights:

• Famous of the rare Jani grape.
• The wine tours are more rugged and off-the-beaten-path here.
• Interact with winemakers and family owned cellars.

7. Samtskhe-Javakheti- Wine on Volcanic Soil

This region in southern Georgia is rather associated with the source of mineral water (like Borjomi) yet possesses a tremendous possibility to create wine there as well since the soil is volcanic.
Highlights:

• The region is the home of high-acid whites that are made with cool-climate grapes.
• See the ancient cave monastery of Vardzia as you travel the area.
• Taste wines that are still being rediscovered by the local wine producers.

8. Meskheti The Rediscovery of Forgotten Vines

It lies on the border between Turkey and Armenia and winemaking has been rediscovered here during the last several years. An ever-increasing interest lies in the restoration of ancient terraced vineyards and near-extinct grapes.
Highlights:

• Reintroduction of ancient vines like Meskhuri Mtsvane and Meskhuri Shavi.
• Focus on sustainable practices and indigenous methods.
• Experience an authentic connection to Georgia’s wine ancestry.

9. Abkhazia – The Contested Yet Historic Region

Although political instability affects travel here, Abkhazia has historically been part of Georgia’s winemaking map. The wines from this region are often bold and deeply aromatic.
Highlights:

• Grape varieties like Azhikvadzha and Kachichi dominate.
• Known for sweet and semi-sweet red wines.
• Rich in ancient winemaking customs that reflect its cultural depth.

Tips for Wine Travelers in Georgia

• Visit During Harvest Season (September–October): Participate in the Rtveli, the traditional grape harvest festival filled with singing, dancing, and feasting.
• Experience Qvevri Wine Making: This UNESCO-listed technique involves fermenting and aging wine in large clay vessels buried underground.
• Combine Wine and Food Tours: Georgian cuisine—khachapuri, khinkali, and badrijani—pairs perfectly with local wines.

Conclusion: Plan Your Georgian Wine Journey

Exploring Georgia’s wine regions is more than just tasting different varieties—it's a cultural immersion into one of the oldest wine-producing civilizations in the world. Each region offers a distinct flavor of Georgian life, landscape, and tradition.

If you’re planning to travel to Georgia and wish for a seamless, curated experience, consider booking with the Best Travel Agency in India. With expert-guided tours, custom wine itineraries, and local insights, they can transform your Georgian wine adventure into a trip of a lifetime. From the vineyards of Kakheti to the hidden cellars of Racha, let your senses lead the way through Georgia’s unforgettable wine country.