Georgia is the birthplace of wine — archaeologists have traced winemaking here back more than 8,000 years. The heart of it all is Kakheti, the sun-drenched eastern region where family cellars still ferment grapes in buried clay qvevri. With your own car, you can hop between wineries, hilltop towns and monasteries at your own pace.
Kakheti is an easy day trip or overnight from Tbilisi — the nearest highlights are under two hours away.
⚠️ Important: Drink-Driving Is Strictly Illegal
Georgia has a near-zero blood-alcohol limit for drivers, with heavy fines and licence suspension. If you plan to taste wine, nominate a non-drinking driver, spit at tastings, or stay overnight. Never drive after drinking.
Route from Tbilisi
- Tbilisi → Sighnaghi: ~115 km, 2 hours
- Tbilisi → Telavi: ~95 km, 1.5–2 hours (via the Gombori Pass, the scenic route)
- Road condition: Paved and easy; the Gombori Pass is winding but fine for any car
- Recommended car: A sedan or economy car is perfect
Top Stops
1. Sighnaghi — the "City of Love"
A beautifully restored hilltop town with cobbled streets, city walls and sweeping views over the Alazani Valley to the Caucasus. Base yourself here for the night. Don't miss the nearby Bodbe Monastery.
2. Telavi — Kakheti's capital
The regional hub, with a lively bazaar, the Batonis Tsikhe fortress, and a 900-year-old plane tree. A great launchpad for surrounding wineries.
3. Tsinandali Estate
The 19th-century estate of Prince Chavchavadze, with elegant gardens and a historic cellar. One of the most visitor-friendly tastings in the region.
4. Gremi & Nekresi
Atmospheric monastery and citadel complexes set among vineyards — quieter, historic stops north of Telavi.
Tasting Qvevri Wine
Look for family marani (cellars) offering tastings of amber (orange) wines made in qvevri — Rkatsiteli and Kisi for whites, Saperavi for reds. Many also serve a full supra (feast) with churchkhela and homemade cheese. Booking ahead is wise in peak season (September–October is harvest, or rtveli).
Practical Tips
- Stay overnight if you want to drink — Sighnaghi and Telavi have plenty of guesthouses.
- Carry cash for small family wineries and village stalls.
- Book harvest visits early — late September fills up fast.
- Fuel up in Tbilisi or Telavi before exploring remote cellars.
Which Car to Rent
Kakheti's roads are gentle, so an economy car or sedan is ideal. Travelling as a group of wine lovers (with a designated driver)? A 7-seater minivan keeps everyone together.
Explore Kakheti at Your Own Pace
Pick up a car in Tbilisi and be in wine country in under two hours.
Find Your Car →Read more: 7–10 Day Georgia Itinerary | Is It Safe to Drive in Georgia? | Rent a Car in Tbilisi