If you're a wine lover, Tbilisi is the perfect destination for you. Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, and its wine-making traditions date back thousands of years. Georgian wine is unique, with a flavor that is distinct from other wines you may have tried. If you're visiting Tbilisi, you'll want to make sure to try some of the local wine. Here's where you can buy it.
The Wine Shops
The easiest place to find Georgian wine is in one of the many wine shops in Tbilisi. These shops specialize in Georgian wine and offer a wide variety of different wines to choose from. Some of the most popular wine shops in Tbilisi include:
- Vinotheca
- Ghvino Underground
- Wine Gallery
- Wine Station
At these shops, you can find a range of Georgian wines, from classic reds like Saperavi to crisp whites like Rkatsiteli. The staff at these shops are usually knowledgeable about the different types of wine and can help you find the perfect bottle for your tastes.
One of the benefits of shopping at a wine shop is that you can often sample the wine before you buy it. This allows you to make an informed decision about which wine to buy and ensures that you'll be happy with your purchase. Some wine shops also offer classes and tastings, where you can learn more about Georgian wine and its history.
The Markets
If you're looking for a more local experience, head to one of Tbilisi's markets. The city has several large markets, including the famous Dezerter Bazaar and the Dry Bridge Market. At these markets, you can find a range of local products, including Georgian wine.
One of the advantages of buying wine at a market is that you can often find great deals. The prices at markets are usually lower than at wine shops, and you can sometimes negotiate with the vendors to get an even better price. You can also find unique and rare wines that you may not be able to find anywhere else.
However, shopping at a market can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you don't speak Georgian. It's a good idea to bring a local friend or guide with you to help you navigate the market and communicate with the vendors.
The Wineries
For the ultimate wine experience, you can visit one of the wineries near Tbilisi. These wineries offer tours and tastings, where you can learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the local wines.
Some of the most popular wineries near Tbilisi include:
- Chateau Mukhrani
- Teliani Valley
- Kindzmarauli Marani
At these wineries, you can try some of the best Georgian wines, including some that you may not be able to find in the shops or markets. You can also learn about the history and culture of Georgian wine-making, and see the vineyards and production facilities up close.
Visiting a winery can be a bit time-consuming, as they are usually located outside of the city and require transportation. However, the experience is well worth it, especially if you're a wine enthusiast.
The Supermarkets
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to buy Georgian wine, you can find it in most supermarkets in Tbilisi. The selection may not be as extensive as in the wine shops or markets, but you can still find a good variety of different wines.
Some of the most popular supermarkets in Tbilisi include:
- Carrefour
- Goodwill
- Spar
When buying wine at a supermarket, make sure to check the label to ensure that it's a Georgian wine. Some supermarkets may also carry imported wines, so you'll want to make sure you're getting the real thing.
Online Shops
If you're unable to visit a physical store, or prefer the convenience of shopping online, there are several online shops that specialize in Georgian wine. These shops offer a wide variety of different wines, and can often ship internationally.
Some of the most popular online shops for Georgian wine include:
- Georgian Wine House
- Georgian Wine Society
- Wine of Georgia
When shopping online for wine, make sure to check the shipping and handling fees, as they can vary depending on your location. You'll also want to make sure that the shop is reputable and has good reviews before making a purchase.
Conclusion
No matter where you choose to buy Georgian wine in Tbilisi, you're sure to find a great selection of different wines to choose from. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Georgian wine is definitely worth a taste. So, go ahead and explore the different wine shops, markets, and wineries in Tbilisi to find your new favorite wine. And if you can't make it to Tbilisi, don't worry – you can still enjoy Georgian wine by shopping online.