We’ve followed the wine trails of Southern Europe, uncovered bold flavors in Hungary and Slovenia, and sipped our way through the vineyards of Moldova and Romania. But the journey doesn’t end there.
Welcome to the Caucasus—where the roots of winemaking go deeper than anywhere else on earth. Armenia and Georgia aren’t just part of wine history; they are wine history. These lands are home to ancient vines, clay vessels buried underground, and traditions that have never needed to be revived—because they never faded.
What you’ll find here is different. The wines are often unfiltered, the flavors earthy and surprising. Meals are served not on plates, but on shared tables that groan under the weight of breads, herbs, cheeses, grilled meats, and sauces made from walnuts, plums, or pomegranate.
If you’re ready for a wine and food experience shaped by mountains, monasteries, and warmhearted hosts who always pour a second glass—this is the route to take.
Armenia – Wines from the Shadow of Ararat
Vayots Dzor – Areni Noir and Cave-Aged Heritage
In Armenia’s south, the Vayots Dzor region is defined by cliffs, gorges, and a wine history that reaches back 6,000 years. The indigenous Areni grape thrives here, producing dry reds that are spicy, elegant, and full of character. Nearby, the Areni-1 cave complex holds the oldest known winery in the world.
Stop at Old Bridge Winery or Trinity Canyon Vineyards—both combine natural winemaking methods with dramatic views of Mount Ararat.
📍 Where to Stay: Hotel Areni House offers simple comfort and proximity to vineyards, while the guesthouse at Old Bridge Winery lets you wake up among the vines.
Aragatsotn – Highlands and Honeyed Whites
West of Yerevan, Aragatsotn sits at the foot of Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest peak. Here, elevations and stony soils create bright whites from grapes like Kangun and Voskehat. The wines are floral, mineral, and crisp—perfect for warm days.
Visit Van Ardi Winery for a relaxed tasting with a view, or Karas Wines for modern techniques paired with local traditions.
📍 Where to Stay: Armas Wine Resort, just a short drive away, offers a stay surrounded by vines and views of distant peaks.
Ararat Valley – Sun and Stone
Closer to the Turkish border, the Ararat Valley is wide, dry, and sun-drenched. Here, grapevines stretch across plains once walked by kings and caravans. The wines are expressive and warm, made with local and international varietals.
Visit Tushpa Winery, a small family-run operation, for personal tastings and views that reach toward the snow-capped mountains.
📍 Where to Stay: HyeLandz Eco Guest House offers traditional décor, gardens, and home-cooked meals just outside Yerevan.
Pair your wine with dolma wrapped in grape leaves, grilled trout, or Armenian cheeses like Lori and Chanakh. And don’t forget the lavash, still baked in underground tonir ovens.
Georgia – Where the Qvevri Holds the Past
Kakheti – Amber Wines and Endless Tables
Kakheti is Georgia’s heartland of wine—and there’s no place quite like it. The region is famous for qvevri wines: fermented in clay vessels buried underground, unfiltered, and full of structure. Expect amber-colored whites, earthy reds, and flavors that evolve with each sip.
Stop at Pheasant’s Tears in Sighnaghi for natural wines and a traditional supra (feast), or visit Shumi Winery for qvevri demonstrations and tastings.
📍 Where to Stay: Lost Ridge Inn outside Sighnaghi offers rustic charm, in-house beer and wine, and panoramic valley views.
Kartli – Cool-Climate Character
Close to Tbilisi, Kartli’s wines are elegant and balanced. The region grows Chinuri, Tavkveri, and other native grapes that create light, aromatic wines. Sparkling wines are also on the rise here.
Visit Ori Marani or Château Mukhrani—both offer modern touches with deep respect for Georgian wine culture.
📍 Where to Stay: Chateau Mukhrani’s guesthouse is ideal for full immersion, while nearby boutique stays in Mtskheta offer charm and quick access to vineyards.
Imereti – Green Hills and Generous Tables
In western Georgia, Imereti feels greener, more humid—and its wines reflect that. Made with less skin contact, they’re lighter, brighter, and often slightly effervescent. Tsitska and Tsolikouri are the stars here.
Baia’s Wine near Baghdati is a family-run vineyard that’s known for its warm welcome and hand-crafted wines.
📍 Where to Stay: Stay at a village guesthouse near Kutaisi for a real taste of local hospitality, with meals served straight from the garden and cellar.
What to Eat with Georgian Wine? Everything. Khinkali (soup dumplings), badrijani (eggplant with walnut paste), lobio (beans with herbs), and dozens of cheeses—from tangy sulguni to fresh imeruli—share the table with wine, not compete with it.
Stay Connected While You Travel
When you’re deep in the valleys of Armenia or winding through Georgian mountain roads, staying connected gives you flexibility without worry. Whether you're navigating to a hidden cellar, translating a menu, or sharing the view from a hilltop monastery, JetSet eSIM keeps you online with no roaming fees or surprise charges.
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