Kakheti

Autumn is just around the corner and thus the time of harvest is getting closer, especially of grapes. In Georgia grapes are harvested between late August and the middle of November. There is no set date when the harvest will actually commence. The main thing is not to miss the precise moment when the grapes are full of miraculous nectar and not let them get over ripe and even worse, to wither. The process of grape gathering is called Rtveli in Georgia and mainly takes place in the Kakheti region, located in the eastern part of Georgia.

Rtveli is a traditional vintage and rural harvest holiday in Georgia accompanied by feasts, musical events and other celebrations. The tradition of Rtveli dates back to ancient times, having its roots in the festivity of mid-Autumn abundance and variety. It is a big occasion in Georgia when the whole nation comes together to honor ancient traditions of winemaking.

Rtveli usually lasts for several days, with people starting work in the early morning hours and ending the day with a feast to the accompaniment of vintage-themed folk songs.

Rtveli is an amazing event that will involve you initimately in the Kakhetian way of life. Getting closer to native Kakhetians, eating a juicy grape, drinking one of the best wines in the world, living a life of a peasant but at the same time enjoying-it is part of the Rtveli.

Interested travellers can easily find harvest gatherings, wine and gastronomic tours in Kakheti, where you can take part in Rtveli, make wine yourself and taste local cuisine. 

Kakhetian cuisine is known to be simple and hearty, consisting mainly of roasted / boiled meat and basic salads – peasant food that nourishes the body after a long day working in the fields.