Georgia is the cradle of wine — with an 8,000-year qvevri tradition inscribed by UNESCO. Discover grape varieties, wine routes and why Georgian wine is unlike any other on Earth.
Georgia: The Birthplace of Wine
Georgia has an 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, making it the oldest wine region in the world. Archaeological evidence from Gadachrili Gora in Marneuli Municipality, studied by Georgian scientists and specialists from seven countries led by University of Pennsylvania biochemist Patrick McGovern, confirmed that wine was being made in Georgia circa 6000 BC. Grape pips and potsherds found at over 50 sites across the country back up Georgia's claim to be the true "cradle of wine."
What makes Georgian wine truly unique is the qvevri — an egg-shaped earthenware vessel used to ferment, store and age wine. This ancient method, inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage List, has been practised continuously for 8,000 years and is still used by farmers and city dwellers alike today. No other winemaking tradition on Earth has remained so faithful to its ancient roots.
What Is the Qvevri Winemaking Method?
The qvevri is a large clay vessel shaped like an egg, buried underground to maintain a constant temperature. The winemaking process is beautifully simple yet profoundly sophisticated: grapes are crushed, and the juice, skins, stems and seeds are all placed into the qvevri together. The vessel is then sealed and left underground for 5 to 6 months. During this time, natural fermentation occurs, and the wine develops its characteristic amber colour (for white wines) or deep ruby hue (for reds).
Unlike conventional winemaking, which separates juice from skins, the qvevri method allows the wine to macerate with all grape components, creating wines with remarkable depth, texture and complexity. The skins provide natural tannins and preservatives, meaning qvevri wines need no added sulphur. The result is some of the most natural, authentic wine you will ever taste.
Georgian Grape Varieties by Region
Georgia is home to over 500 indigenous grape varieties — more than any other country. Following the "Wine Route" signs that appear on roads throughout the country will lead you to both large industrial wineries and small family cellars. Here is what to seek out in each region:
- Kakheti: Aromatic Kakhuri Mtsvane and Kisi, full-bodied Rkatsiteli and Saperavi — Georgia's most famous wine region.
- Imereti: Lively Tsitska-Tsolikouri and Krakhuna — crisp, food-friendly whites.
- Racha-Lechkhumi: Sweet and fruity Usakhelouri, Khvanchkara and Tvishi — rare, prized dessert wines.
- Ajara & Guria: Chkhaveri — a distinctive pink or light red wine perfect for summer.
- Samegrelo: Berry-forward red Ojaleshi.
- Shida Kartli: Elegant Chinebuli and Goruli Mtsvane.
- Kvemo Kartli: Golden Rkatsiteli and strawberry-like Asuretuli Shala.
- Samtskhe-Javakheti: Resilient Meskhuri Mtsvane, Meskhuri Tsiteli and Chitiskvertskha.
The only place you will not find a wine route is high in the Caucasus Mountains where grapes cannot grow. Everywhere else, a tasting is never far away.
Wine and Georgian Song
Wine is the heart of Georgian culture, and its influence permeates everything — including music. A significant portion of Georgian polyphonic singing is devoted to vine and wine. There are ritual folk songs performed during vineyard tending, grape pressing, the opening of a qvevri and more. Georgians even greet the birth of a new child and the birth of new wine with the same song. Today, farmers still sing these songs in their vineyards, while professional ensembles bring these cultural masterpieces to world stages.
Wine and Food: The Perfect Pairing
Georgian wine and Georgian cuisine have evolved together for millennia, creating pairings that are deeply rooted in tradition. Saperavi pairs beautifully with rich meat dishes like mtsvadi (grilled meat skewers). Amber qvevri whites complement khachapuri and pkhali. The sweet Khvanchkara is perfect with fruit and desserts. Every region has its own food-wine traditions, making a Georgian culinary journey endlessly fascinating.
Plan Your Georgian Wine Journey
Our specialists can design a custom wine route through Kakheti, Imereti and beyond — visiting family cellars, tasting rare varieties and experiencing the ancient qvevri tradition first-hand. From boutique wine hotels to grand chateaux, Georgia offers a wine experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.
