Kakheti tour – Private Full Day Wine tour with Lunch and Wine tasting

Exploring Georgia’s wine culture through a full-day private tour in Kakheti offers something truly special. This experience, offered by Find Out Georgia, promises not only tasting some of the finest natural wines but also glimpsing the country’s scenic landscapes, historic cellars, and warm hospitality—all in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. With a focus on authentic Georgian traditions and personalized attention, this tour is a thoughtful way to deepen your appreciation of Georgia beyond its bustling capital, Tbilisi.

One thing I really appreciate about this tour is its well-curated itinerary. Each stop feels thoughtfully chosen—whether it’s tasting organic wines at Okros Wines or marveling at the ancient caves of Khareba’s tunnel winery. I also love the personalized nature, since it’s a private experience, meaning you’re not sharing your day with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed pace and tailored conversations.

However, keep in mind that because it’s a full-day trip, it involves a fair amount of travel and walking, so packing comfortable shoes and some patience for longer stops is wise. Also, the tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather conditions is a good idea.

All in all, this Kakheti wine tour balances education, scenery, and genuine Georgian flavor—perfect for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those eager to enjoy Georgia’s hospitality in a relaxed setting.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic, private experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Multiple cellar visits allow a deep dive into traditional Georgian winemaking methods.
• Local guide Zuka receives rave reviews for his friendliness, knowledge, and hospitality.
• Rich tasting sessions include wines from organically harvested grapes and Georgian chacha.
• Scenic stops like Sighnaghi and the tunnel wine cellar enhance the visual and cultural appeal.
• Value for the price includes transportation, lunch, and several tasting opportunities, all in one day.

An In-Depth Look at the Kakheti Wine Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Ease and Comfort with Pickup and Drop-off

The tour begins promptly at 9:30 am, with pickup arranged from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Tbilisi. The convenience of door-to-door service means you can relax without worrying about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. The transport is a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making the roughly 2-hour drive through Georgia’s picturesque landscapes more comfortable and scenic.

First Stop: The Village of Badiauri and Georgian Bread & Cheese Tasting

Your journey kicks off with a short visit to Badiauri, a village en route to Signagi. This stop is a lovely introduction—sampling fresh Georgian bread and cheese, which are staples of local hospitality. It’s a chance to taste simple, honest flavors that reflect everyday Georgian life. Given that this stop is only about 20 minutes and free of charge, it’s more about setting the scene than a lengthy exploration.

Stop 2: Sighnaghi, the City of Love

Next, the tour takes you into Sighnaghi, often called the “City of Love”, perched on a hill with sweeping views of the Alazani Valley. A highlight here is visiting Okros Wines, founded in 2004, where traditional Georgian techniques shine. Grape varieties like Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, and Saperavi are grown organically—meaning no chemicals—and used to produce natural wines that reflect regional terroir.

During this hour, you’ll taste three different wines and some chacha (Georgian grappa), giving you a well-rounded introduction to local grape varieties. The owner’s focus on organic, chemical-free winemaking is a bonus for those interested in natural wines, and the member of the Natural Wine Association adds credibility. Multiple reviews mention the quality of these tastings and the friendly approach of guides like Zuka, making it clear that this part of the tour is both educational and delicious.

Stop 3: Vakho Oqruashvili — A Warm, Homestyle Wine Cellar

The next stop is a cozy, personal experience at Vakho Oqruashvili’s wine cellar. Here, you’ll enjoy home-made wine and cuisine in a relaxed setting— a true taste of Georgian hospitality. Vakho himself hosts visitors personally, which reviewers describe as a highlight—”Vakho is a person who will host you personally.” The brief 15-minute visit allows for a more intimate look at home-style winemaking and tasting, providing a nice contrast to the more commercial wineries.

The Showstopper: Tunnel Winery Khareba’s

No visit to Kakheti would be complete without exploring the famous Khareba Tunnel Winery. Built into the Caucasus rock massif in 1962, this 7.7 km-long wine cave is a marvel. The cool, constant temperature (12-16°C) offers ideal conditions for wine aging, and the experience of walking through a tunnel carved into solid rock is unlike anything else. You’ll learn about the unique storage methods, with bottles placed horizontally or upright to keep the corks moist.

This stop is about 40 minutes long, providing a fascinating look at Georgia’s innovative wine storage and the country’s long-standing winemaking traditions. Tour reviews laud this site as unforgettable, and the experience of walking in the underground tunnels adds a literal depth to your understanding of Georgian wine culture.

Wrapping Up: Scenic Views and Last Tastings

After the tunnels, the journey back to Tbilisi includes scenic vistas and possibly some final tastings or photos of the Alazani Valley. The tour wraps up around 7:30 pm, making it a full, enriching day.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want more than just a tasting—it’s about understanding Georgian winemaking as part of the culture, with expert guides like Zuka enhancing the experience through stories and hospitality. The small group/private setting allows for tailored conversations and a more authentic feel, and the variety of stops ensures you get a broad picture of regional winemaking techniques and traditions.

Price-wise, $175 per person might seem steep to some, but considering the inclusion of lunch, multiple tastings, transportation, and exclusive visits, it offers solid value for those interested in deepening their knowledge of Georgia’s wine heritage.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re a wine lover seeking genuine, local experiences and a chance to taste organic, traditional wines, this tour is ideal. Culture-seekers will also appreciate the scenic stops and underground tunnels. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided insights but still want some personal space and flexibility.

Who Might Consider Alternatives

Travelers on a tight budget might find similar tastings in Tbilisi, but they would miss the scenic beauty and exclusivity of this full-day private experience. Also, if you’re not keen on a full day of wine-related activities, shorter or less intensive options are available.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress accordingly.
• Most travelers can participate, but those under 18 are not permitted to drink.
• The tour lasts around 10 hours, so come prepared for a full day.
• Book early if you want the private experience, as group discounts might not apply.
• Pay attention to cancellation policies—free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, with pickup arranged from your accommodation or a specified meeting point.

Is transportation included?
Yes, a private, air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day.

Are lunch and wine tastings included?
Yes, both lunch and multiple wine tastings, including chacha, are part of the package.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, suitable for the weather, especially for walking through tunnels and outdoor stops.

Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates.

How long is the tunnel wine cellar?
The tunnel extends for 7.7 km, carved into the Caucasus rock, offering an unforgettable underground experience.

Will I learn about Georgian winemaking techniques?
Absolutely. You’ll visit wineries that use traditional methods, and guides share insights into organic harvesting and natural wine production.

Who is the guide?
Most reviews highlight Zuka, known for his friendliness and knowledge—many say he makes the experience fun and personal.

What’s the best season to take this tour?
While operating rain or shine, spring and fall offer especially scenic views, but the underground cellar experience is perfect year-round.

In summary, this Kakheti private wine tour balances the joy of tasting with meaningful cultural insights. It’s a fantastic way to understand Georgia’s unique approach to winemaking, all while enjoying the stunning countryside, historic cellars, and warm hospitality. If you’re serious about wine or simply want to experience Georgia beyond the surface, this tour offers a memorable and worthwhile day out.