Georgia and Armenia: The Qvevri Road

About this trip:

Tucked between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, Georgia is the country that gave the world wine. Archaeological evidence shows that wine was being made in Georgia 8,000 years ago.

Just across its southern border, Armenia is every bit as extraordinary. It is home to a 6,000-year-old winery discovered in a cave at Areni, complete with a wine press, fermentation vats, storage jars, and drinking cups, all remarkably preserved. Together, these two countries are sought-after destinations for those serious about food and wine travel.

As we criss-cross Georgia, we'll explore a rich history, extraordinary cuisine and wines still fermented in qvevri, the same clay vessels used by Georgia's earliest winemakers. We'll also bask in the radiance of Georgian hospitality, rooted in the belief that every guest is a gift from God. This spirit infuses every meal we will share, from lunches at family-run wineries to dinners where a toast, offered in the tradition of the tamada, or toastmaster, becomes its own form of storytelling. Georgians consider their guests kin, and there is no better place to feel this than at the table while discovering the utterly new (and ancient) flavors of Georgian cuisine.

Certified Specialist of Wine Liz Barrett will share her wine knowledge along the way. Georgia has been on her must-go list for years. “As a wine writer, I thrive on everything that makes wine interesting – history, stories, people, geography, farming and winemaking techniques, and of course, the local food that brings wine to life.”Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity, with Georgia following soon after. That legacy still runs through their monasteries, festivals, and daily rituals today.

At the end of our 10 days in Georgia, guests may continue overland on a three-day post-tour to Armenia (details in the itinerary). I hope you'll join me and Liz on this exceptional voyage to discover this unique culture and its people on the Caucasus.

PLEASE NOTE: For the four-day extension to Armenia, please select this at checkout. Your return flight will need to be from Yerevan. Assistance with flights available. Also, please be aware that deposits are due at the time of booking and are non-refundable. For details of our cancellation policy and terms and conditions, please click here. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. If you are traveling from the US, the flight time is around 24 hours total, typically arriving in Tbilisi in the small hours of your second day of travel. Early hotel check-in on Day 1 will be included.

DATES
October 8-22, 2027 (TBC)

Please register for more information and to be notified when the tour is finalized.

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