Road Scholar Learning Adventure: Unveiling Georgia’s Oldest Wine-Producing Region

In the heart of the South Caucasus lies a country with a history as rich and diverse as the grapes that adorn its vineyards. Welcome to the Country of Georgia, a land of towering Caucasus Mountains, picturesque valleys, and a title that it boasts with well-deserved pride—the oldest wine-producing region in the world. For over 8,000 years, the local inhabitants have been nurturing grapes and crafting neolithic wine, making Georgia the true birthplace of this timeless elixir.

It’s an awe-inspiring thought, isn’t it? To consider that the art of winemaking has flourished in this region for millennia, shaping cultures, traditions, and even the land itself. At the heart of this remarkable tale lies the Kakheti Region, a jewel in Georgia’s crown and often referred to as the country’s wine country. It’s here that travelers can embark on a 12-night learning adventure with Road Scholar, delving into the fascinating world of Georgian agriculture, sustainability, winemaking, bread baking, and community.

Road Scholar, the world’s largest and most innovative creator of experiential learning opportunities, offers an enticing invitation to explore the wonders of Georgia. Stepping away from the traditional travel paradigm, Road Scholar’s mission is as unique as the experiences it provides. Established as a not-for-profit organization back in 1975, Road Scholar has been transforming travel into meaningful educational journeys, a feat reflected in its extensive offering of 5,500 learning adventures spanning 150 countries and all 50 states. With over 100,000 participants per year, this is a community of curious minds and eager learners, where travelers can embark on a shared adventure of discovery.

From the charming capital city of Tbilisi to the fertile landscapes of Kakheti, Georgia’s allure lies in its diverse topography and cultural gems. As you embark on this educational voyage, local experts will guide you through a tapestry of experiences, unveiling the layers of history that make Georgia truly special. Imagine standing before a 14th-century church, perched majestically atop a hill over 7,000 feet high. The view alone is enough to take your breath away, but it’s the stories woven into its stone walls that truly captivate.

The journey continues to Gardenia Shevardnadze, the private gardens of Georgia’s pioneering gardener, a place where nature’s beauty meets human ingenuity. Along the way, you’ll be introduced to the intricate art of crafting local delicacies. From the mouthwatering khachapuri and the unique churchkela to the flavorful khinkali and fiery chacha, every bite and sip reveals the essence of Georgia’s culinary heritage.

Yet, perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this voyage is the wine itself. Imagine tasting a wine that has been crafted in clay jugs for thousands of years, a testament to the timeless traditions that have shaped this land. The vineyards of Kakheti offer not only a chance to savor exquisite wines but also an opportunity to understand the symbiotic relationship between the land and the hands that tend to it.

Here are some highlights of your captivating adventure:

1. Tibaani Vineyards: A Journey into Natural Winemaking Mastery Begin your immersive exploration at Tibaani Vineyards, an integral part of the Pheasant’s Tears Winery—a rising luminary in the realm of natural wine production. Join a local winegrower as you traverse the vineyards and cellars, uncovering the intricacies of Georgia’s centuries-old winemaking techniques. Peer into the fascinating process of grape cultivation, maceration, and aging within colossal ceramic vessels, each lovingly lined with beeswax—a testament to the timeless customs of Georgian winemaking.
2. Togonidze Winery: Toasts to Tradition and Family Legacy Delight your senses at the Togonidze Winery, where the esteemed founder, Gia Togonidze, and her family have etched their names in the annals of global acclaim. Known not only for their exceptional natural wines but also for their heartfelt hospitality, the Togonidze family invites you to a memorable wine tasting experience. Journey through methodologies passed down over 8,000 years, as each sip reveals the heritage and craftsmanship that define their cherished creations.
3. A Day Trip to Ikalto and Shalauri: Uncovering Winemaking’s Historical Roots Embark on a captivating day trip to the charming villages of Ikalto and Shalauri, where Georgia’s winemaking legacy unfolds. At the venerable Ikalto Monastery, founded in the 12th century by King David IV, the secrets of winemaking come to life. Discover the wine-making school that was part of this ancient academy and marvel at some of the oldest qvevris—clay jugs integral to winemaking—found in Georgia. In 2013, UNESCO bestowed a prestigious honor upon the traditional Qvevri method, cementing its place on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
4. Chavchavadze House Museum: An Aristocratic Legacy Immerse yourself in history at the Chavchavadze House Museum, a haven of intellect and creativity situated within the opulent estate of Alexander Chavchavadze—an aristocrat, poet, and pioneering winemaker. The legacy of this visionary reverberates through time, as you explore the site where the country’s foremost winery was born. Experience the allure of the dry white Tsinandali wine, a living testament to a legacy that continues to thrive.
5. Lost Ridge Craft Brewery & Inn: A Fusion of Flavors and Traditions Embark on a journey of flavors at Lost Ridge Craft Brewery & Inn, nestled in the idyllic village of Qedeli. Here, farmhouse ales like Saison and Tripel take on a Georgian twist, embodying the fusion of classic Belgian styles with the vibrancy of Kakhetian fruits and spices. Delve into the intricacies of craft beer production, where tradition meets innovation. As you explore the verdant orchards and “food forest,” you’ll gain insights into the sustainable practices that underscore their culinary and brewing excellence.

So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culinary connoisseur, or simply a curious traveler, the Country of Georgia beckons with open arms and a bounty of experiences. Join Road Scholar on a journey that transcends the ordinary, where learning becomes an adventure, and where the roots of winemaking intertwine with the stories of a remarkable land and its people.

To all those intrigued by this captivating journey, kindly access the following link:

https://www.roadscholar.org/find-an-adventure/24678/Republic-of-Georgia-Tbilisi-Winelands-Highlands/itinerary