Tbilisi City Guide

Located in the picturesque region of Racha, far from the hustle of modern life, the vineyards where Khvanchkara wine is born are as timeless as the wine itself. With its roots in an ancient tradition that spans thousands of years, Khvanchkara is more than just a drink - it’s a piece of history, a taste of Georgia’s soul.
The grape varieties used in Khvanchkara are rare and unique to Georgia: Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli. These two ancient varieties grow in the fertile soil of the Racha Valley, surrounded by the majestic Caucasus mountains. The grapes are hand-harvested with care, a practice passed down through generations. It’s this careful selection of fruit, combined with the region’s distinct microclimate, that gives Khvanchkara its exquisite taste.
The wine itself is often described as semi-sweet, with a deep ruby-red color that glimmers in the sunlight. Its flavor profile is rich and complex, with notes of dark cherries, plums, and spices that linger on the palate. But there’s more to this wine than just its taste. Khvanchkara is known for its smoothness and elegance, making it a favorite for special occasions or intimate gatherings.
For Georgians, Khvanchkara isn’t just a wine - it’s a part of their heritage. The region of Racha has been producing wine for over 3,000 years, with many families still making wine in traditional ways, using clay vessels and natural fermentation processes. In Racha, it’s said that wine isn’t just a drink but a bridge between the living and the ancestors, a way to celebrate life, love, and the land.
Imagine sitting in a small village, perhaps in the home of a local winemaker, sharing stories over a glass of Khvanchkara. As you sip the wine, it’s as though you are drinking in the history of this beautiful region - the ancient traditions, the family bonds, and the labor of love that goes into every bottle.
Khvanchkara is also one of the few wines to have received international recognition. In the mid-20th century, it was awarded the prestigious Grand Prix at the Paris Exhibition of 1900, helping to put Georgian wines on the world map. But even with its global acclaim, Khvanchkara remains deeply tied to its roots. It’s a wine that still carries the essence of the land from which it comes.
While Khvanchkara is often enjoyed during celebrations, it’s equally at home at a simple Georgian table, where its delicate sweetness pairs perfectly with traditional dishes like Rachuli Lobiani (bean-filled bread), or even the famous Georgian Khachapuri. In many ways, Khvanchkara reflects the spirit of Georgia itself: timeless, deep, and full of life.
For those who travel to Georgia and wish to experience a piece of the country’s rich winemaking tradition, Khvanchkara offers a taste of its storied past one sip, and you’ll understand why it holds a place of honor in Georgian culture. And just as the landscape of Racha invites you to explore its natural beauty, Khvanchkara opens a window into the heart of Georgia, offering a story in every glass.