Discover Kakheti Georgia

When archaeologists unearthed ancient qvevri vessels and fossilized grape seeds in Georgia, they confirmed what locals had always known: this is where wine began. Dating to approximately 6000 BCE, these Neolithic artifacts represent humanity’s oldest evidence of deliberate winemaking—predating European viticulture by thousands of years. The qvevri method, using large egg-shaped clay vessels buried underground for fermentation and aging, remains the cornerstone of traditional Georgian winemaking.

Kakheti produces over 70% of Georgia’s wine across its two river valleys—the Alazani and Iori. The region’s 250-800 meter elevation, moderate subtropical climate, and diverse soils nurture over 500 indigenous grape varieties found nowhere else on Earth. Saperavi, a teinturier grape producing deep purple wines with remarkable aging potential, and Rkatsiteli, a versatile white that shines in both European and qvevri styles, have become Georgia’s calling cards to the world. In 2013, UNESCO recognized qvevri winemaking as Intangible Cultural Heritage, acknowledging that wine cellars remain ‘the holiest place in the family home.’