Wine Travel Guide: Ambrolauri-Racha-Lechkhumi, Georgia
Nestled in the heart of Georgia, the Ambrolauri-Racha-Lechkhumi region offers a unique wine experience. This lesser-known area boasts ancient winemaking traditions and stunning landscapes.
Towns and Villages
Ambrolauri serves as the main hub for exploring the region. It’s known for its picturesque setting and traditional architecture.
Oni is a charming town with thermal springs and a rich history. Visit the local museum to learn about the area’s winemaking heritage.
Tsageri, in Lechkhumi, offers breathtaking views of the Caucasus mountains and access to nearby vineyards.
Wine Producers
- Khvanchkara Winery: Famous for its semi-sweet red Khvanchkara wine
- Askaneli Brothers: Produces a range of wines, including the local Tsolikouri variety
- Teliani Valley: Offers tours and tastings of their Racha-Lechkhumi wines
Many small family wineries welcome visitors for tastings and to learn about traditional qvevri winemaking methods.
Accommodations
Shovi Resort in Racha offers comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby wineries.
Guesthouse Mze Shina in Ambrolauri provides a cozy, authentic stay with homemade wine.
For a unique experience, consider staying at a family-run winery guesthouse to immerse yourself in local wine culture.
Dining
Restaurant Vachevi in Ambrolauri serves traditional Georgian dishes paired with local wines.
Racha Restaurant offers panoramic views and specializes in regional cuisine, including Rachan ham.
Don’t miss trying Lobio (bean stew) and Khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) at local eateries, perfectly complementing the region’s wines.
Wine Shops & Bars
Ambrolauri offers several local wine shops where you can taste and purchase regional wines:
- Racha Wine House: Stocks a wide variety of Racha-Lechkhumi wines
- Khvanchkara Wine Cellar: Specializes in the famous Khvanchkara wine
For a cozy wine bar experience, visit Vino Underground in Oni, featuring natural wines from small producers.
Other Shops
Don’t miss these local specialty stores:
- Racha Honey House in Ambrolauri: Offers various types of local honey
- Tsageri Farmers’ Market: Find fresh produce and homemade goods
- Oni Craft Shop: Sells traditional Georgian handicrafts and souvenirs
Attractions
Beyond wine, explore these regional highlights:
- Nikortsminda Cathedral: 11th-century church with stunning frescoes
- Shaori Reservoir: Perfect for picnics and water activities
- Skhvava Waterfall: A hidden gem in Lechkhumi, ideal for hiking
Visit the Racha Regional Museum in Ambrolauri to learn about local history and winemaking traditions.
Events
Plan your trip around these wine-related events:
- Racha Wine Festival (October): Celebrate the harvest with tastings and folk performances
- Tvishi Wine Day (August): Focuses on the local Tsolikouri grape variety
- Georgian Wine Week (June): Features wines from Racha-Lechkhumi alongside other regions
Appellations
The region boasts several protected designations of origin (PDO):
- Khvanchkara PDO: For the famous semi-sweet red wine
- Tvishi PDO: White wine made from Tsolikouri grapes
- Tetra PDO: Dry red wine from Racha
These appellations ensure the authenticity and quality of wines produced in specific areas of Racha-Lechkhumi.
Grape Varieties
The Ambrolauri-Racha-Lechkhumi region of Georgia is known for its unique grape varieties. Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli are the primary red grapes, while Tsolikouri and Tetra dominate white wine production.
These indigenous varieties thrive in the region’s mountainous terroir. They produce wines with distinctive flavors and aromas that reflect the local landscape.
Main Wine Styles
The region is famous for its Khvanchkara wine, a naturally semi-sweet red blend of Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes. This wine has a deep ruby color and complex flavors of ripe berries and spices.
Dry red wines from Alexandrouli and white wines from Tsolikouri are also gaining recognition. Many producers use traditional qvevri (clay vessels) for fermentation and aging, resulting in unique amber or orange wines.
Food Specialties
Racha-Lechkhumi cuisine is hearty and flavorful, perfect for pairing with local wines. Lobio (bean stew) and Shkmeruli (garlic chicken) are popular dishes.
Don’t miss Rachan ham, a local delicacy cured with mountain air and spices. It pairs excellently with the region’s robust red wines.
Drives & Walks
The Shaori Reservoir offers scenic drives and hiking trails with stunning mountain views. Visit in autumn to see the colorful foliage reflected in the water.
For a challenging hike, explore the trails around Shovi resort. The area boasts mineral springs and diverse flora, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Tour
- Day 1: Visit Khvanchkara winery, explore Ambrolauri town
- Day 2: Tour small family wineries in Racha, taste Alexandrouli wines
- Day 3: Explore Lechkhumi vineyards, sample Tsolikouri and amber wines
5-Day Nature and Wine Adventure
- Day 1-2: Hike in Shovi, visit local wineries
- Day 3: Explore Shaori Reservoir, picnic with local wines
- Day 4: Tour Khvanchkara and surrounding vineyards
- Day 5: Visit Lechkhumi wineries, taste rare grape varieties
Getting There & Around
The nearest airport is Kutaisi International Airport, about 150 km from Ambrolauri. Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the region’s wineries and landscapes.
Local marshrutkas (minibuses) connect major towns, but schedules can be irregular. Consider hiring a local driver for winery tours.
Best Time to Visit
September to October is ideal for wine enthusiasts. Experience the rtveli (grape harvest) and enjoy mild weather perfect for vineyard tours.
Spring (April-May) offers beautiful scenery and fewer tourists. Avoid winter unless you’re interested in skiing at Shovi resort.
Sustainability Efforts
Many wineries in Ambrolauri-Racha-Lechkhumi practice organic viticulture. Look for Bio Gvino certification on wine labels.
Support eco-friendly guesthouses and restaurants that source ingredients locally. Ask about their sustainability practices when booking.
Language Tips
Learn basic Georgian wine terms: “Gaumarjos” (cheers), “Ghvino” (wine), “Marani” (wine cellar).
English is limited outside major towns. Download a Georgian language app or carry a phrasebook for smoother communication.
Further Resources
Visit the official Georgian Wine Agency website for detailed information on wine regions and varieties.
Join online forums like “Georgian Wine Lovers” on social media platforms to connect with fellow enthusiasts and get insider tips.
