Discover Baghdati: Georgia’s Hidden Wine Gem
Baghdati, a charming town in the Imereti region of Georgia, offers wine enthusiasts a unique glimpse into the country’s ancient winemaking traditions. This lesser-known destination boasts picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and a rich cultural heritage.
Towns and Villages
Baghdati serves as the main hub for exploring the surrounding area. Nearby villages like Rokiti and Khani offer authentic rural experiences and opportunities to taste homemade wines.
Baghdati
- Population: Approximately 3,800
- Known for: Birthplace of Vladimir Mayakovsky, famous Russian poet
- Attractions: Mayakovsky Museum, central park, local markets
Wine Producers
While Baghdati is not as renowned for wine production as other Georgian regions, it still offers some excellent local producers. Small family wineries and artisanal producers are the norm here.
- Tchrebalo Winery: Known for traditional qvevri wines
- Baia’s Wine: A family-run winery producing natural wines
- Lagvinari: Focuses on indigenous grape varieties
Accommodations
Lodging options in Baghdati are limited but charming. Guesthouses and small hotels offer comfortable stays with local hospitality.
- Imereti Guest House: Traditional accommodation with homemade wine
- Hotel Baghdati: Basic but clean rooms in the town center
- Wine Cellar Guesthouse: Unique stay in a converted wine cellar
Dining
Baghdati’s dining scene focuses on traditional Georgian cuisine. Local restaurants and family-run eateries serve hearty dishes paired with regional wines.
- Marani Restaurant: Authentic Imeretian dishes and extensive wine list
- Tone Bakery: Fresh khachapuri and other Georgian pastries
- Sakhli: Home-style cooking in a cozy atmosphere
Wine Shops & Bars
Baghdati’s wine scene is intimate and local-focused. Small shops and cozy bars offer authentic Georgian wine experiences.
- Vine & Wine: Local wine shop with a wide selection of regional bottles
- Baghdati Wine Cellar: Underground bar featuring qvevri wines
- Chacha Corner: Specializes in Georgian brandies and spirits
Other Shops
While shopping options are limited, Baghdati offers unique local products. Artisanal crafts and traditional goods make for perfect souvenirs.
- Imereti Craft Market: Handmade textiles, ceramics, and woodwork
- Tkemali Sauce Shop: Locally-made condiments and preserves
- Georgian Spice Bazaar: Aromatic spices and dried herbs
Attractions
Baghdati’s attractions blend cultural heritage with natural beauty. Historical sites and scenic landscapes offer diverse experiences for visitors.
- Vladimir Mayakovsky Museum: Dedicated to the famous poet’s life and works
- Rokiti Monastery: 11th-century Orthodox monastery with stunning frescoes
- Satsalike Nature Reserve: Hiking trails and diverse flora and fauna
Events
Baghdati’s events calendar celebrates local culture and traditions. Festivals and harvest celebrations showcase the region’s wine heritage.
- Rtveli: Annual grape harvest festival (September-October)
- Mayakovsky Poetry Days: Literary event honoring the poet (July)
- Imereti Wine Festival: Showcasing local wines and cuisine (May)
Appellations
While Baghdati itself is not a designated wine appellation, it’s part of the larger Imereti region. Nearby appellations produce distinctive Georgian wines.
- Sviri: Known for its aromatic white wines
- Obcha: Produces full-bodied red wines
- Terjola: Specializes in traditional method sparkling wines
Grape Varieties
The Baghdati region in Imereti, Georgia, is known for cultivating several indigenous grape varieties. Tsolikouri and Tsitska are the primary white grape varieties grown here.
Other notable varieties include:
- Krakhuna (white)
- Otskhanuri Sapere (red)
- Saperavi (red)
Main Wine Styles
Baghdati wines are typically crafted using traditional Georgian methods. Qvevri wines are a specialty, fermented and aged in clay vessels buried underground.
Common wine styles from the region include:
- Dry white wines (Tsolikouri, Tsitska)
- Full-bodied red wines (Otskhanuri Sapere, Saperavi)
- Amber or orange wines (skin-contact white wines)
Food Specialties
Baghdati’s cuisine reflects the rich culinary traditions of Imereti. Khachapuri Imeruli, a cheese-filled bread, is a local favorite.
Other regional specialties include:
- Satsivi (walnut sauce with chicken or turkey)
- Ghomi (cornmeal porridge)
- Lobio (red bean stew)
Drives & Walks
Explore the scenic beauty of Baghdati through various drives and walks. The Ajameti Nature Reserve offers hiking trails through pristine forests.
Notable routes include:
- Drive to Sairme resort (30 km from Baghdati)
- Walk along the Khanistskali River
- Hike to the Tskhrajvari Monastery ruins
Itineraries
Plan your Baghdati wine adventure with these suggested itineraries:
1-Day Wine Tour
- Morning: Visit a local vineyard
- Afternoon: Explore Baghdati town center
- Evening: Wine tasting and dinner at a traditional restaurant
3-Day Immersion
- Day 1: Winery visits and qvevri workshop
- Day 2: Hike in Ajameti Reserve, picnic with local wines
- Day 3: Cooking class featuring Imeretian dishes and wine pairing
Getting There & Around
The nearest airport to Baghdati is Kutaisi International Airport, about 50 km away. From there, you can:
- Rent a car (recommended for exploring vineyards)
- Take a taxi (negotiate the fare beforehand)
- Use marshrutkas (shared minibuses) for budget travel
Within Baghdati, walking is suitable for short distances. For vineyard tours, consider hiring a local driver familiar with the area.
Best Time to Visit
The grape harvest season (late August to early October) is ideal for wine enthusiasts. You can participate in the rtveli (traditional grape harvest) festivities.
Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and vineyard tours.
Sustainability Efforts
Many Baghdati wineries are embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Some notable initiatives include:
- Water conservation techniques in vineyards
- Use of traditional qvevri for natural winemaking
- Local grape variety preservation programs
Support eco-friendly wineries by choosing their products and tours during your visit.
Language Tips
While English is increasingly common in the tourism sector, learning a few Georgian phrases can enhance your experience:
- Gamarjoba (Hello)
- Gmadlobt (Thank you)
- Gaumarjos (Cheers)
For wine terms, familiarize yourself with qvevri (clay fermentation vessel) and rtveli (grape harvest).
Further Resources
Enhance your Baghdati wine journey with these resources:
- Georgia Travel – Official tourism website
- National Wine Agency of Georgia – Information on Georgian wines
- “For the Love of Wine” by Alice Feiring – Book on Georgian wine culture
Consider downloading offline maps and translation apps before your trip, as internet connectivity can be spotty in rural areas.
