Rtveli Wine Festival in Georgia: History, traditions and participation in the celebration

The traditions of winemaking in Georgia go back to ancient times, when the vine was a sacred symbol of fertility and abundance. Archaeologists are finding evidence of winemaking in Georgia, which is more than 8000 years old, making this country one of the most ancient wine regions in the world. The Rtveli Festival has become a symbol of the unity of the people, and its celebration unites generations: the old pass on knowledge, and the young learn traditions and respect for the land.

How to participate in the festival: tips for tourists

The Rtveli Festival is, first of all, a family holiday, which is mainly celebrated among local residents. However, many wineries and farms open their doors to tourists and offer a unique opportunity to become a part of this celebration.

Tips for tourists:

How to get to the holiday: It is best to arrange in advance with the wineries that conduct tours. Popular wineries such as Chateau Mukhrani and Teliani Valley host special events and guided tours for guests.

Time for the trip: Rtveli takes place in late September — early October, but the exact dates depend on weather conditions and the ripening of the crop. Plan your trip with flexibility so as not to miss the start of the holiday.

Communication with local residents: In the regions of Kakheti and Imereti, you can find hospitable families who will invite you to join their celebration. A friendly attitude and willingness to participate can play into your hands!

The best regions to participate in Rtveli

Kakheti: Kakheti is considered the heart of Georgian winemaking. Here you can meet family farms that will be happy to welcome guests and show all the stages of the wine-making process. The local landscapes and vineyards will create an atmosphere of real immersion in the culture of winemaking.

Imereti: Winemaking here has unique features, such as fermentation in ceramic jugs. The region is famous for its hospitality and vibrant celebrations accompanied by music and traditional dishes.

Svaneti and Racha: These mountainous regions offer a truly special atmosphere of celebrating Rtveli. Majestic mountains, ancient customs and breathtaking views make participating in Rtveli an unforgettable event.

The process of grape harvest and crush

Harvesting: The morning of the harvest begins with the fact that all family members, from toddlers to the elderly, go out to the vineyards to harvest ripe grapes. It is a laborious but joyful process, accompanied by conversations and laughter. Each family member, as well as guests, can take part and feel the atmosphere of joint work.

Grape crush: After the harvest, the most interesting thing comes — the crush of grapes. This process is considered a real ritual and is accompanied by a lot of emotions. Huge vats are filled with fresh grapes, and every family member, including guests, climbs into the vat to crush the grapes with their feet. This is a tradition that brings not only joy, but also brings all participants closer together.

Traditions of the feast on Rtveli

After a hard day, the celebration begins — a feast. The Georgian feast on Rtveli is not just a meal, but a real ritual symbolizing gratitude for the harvest and fertility. Traditional dishes appear on the table:

Satsivi — chicken in walnut sauce, one of the favorite dishes of Georgian cuisine.

Elarji is corn porridge with suluguni cheese, a special dish that is often prepared in Western Georgia.

Khinkali and shish kebab are classics that delight both locals and tourists.

The host of the feast, the toastmaster, makes toasts. Each toast is a little story that reflects the wisdom of the Georgian people, love for the land and respect for traditions. Toasts at Rtveli are dedicated to gratitude for the harvest, family ties and guests who joined the celebration.

Legends and myths about Georgian winemaking

There are many beautiful legends associated with winemaking in Georgia. One of them says that the first vines of grapes were sent to the Georgians by the gods as a sign of their blessing. Since then, the vine has been considered a link between heaven and earth, and every drop of wine is a real gift from nature and gratitude for work.

Wine tours and the best wineries to visit

For those who want to learn more about Georgian winemaking, there are special wine tours that include visits to wineries, participation in Rtveli and wine tasting. Here are some popular wineries to visit:

Winery "Shumi" (Kakheti) — offers unique tours and the opportunity to participate in the wine production process.

Chateau Mukhrani — here you can not only participate in the Rtveli, but also walk through the vineyards, as well as visit the ancient castle and the tasting room, where many varieties of wine are presented.

Useful tips for travelers

Clothes and shoes: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that can get dirty, as you will have to actively participate in the process of picking and crushing grapes.

Trip planning: The dates depend on the ripening of the grapes, so it is advisable to plan a trip with some flexibility. Contact the wineries in advance to clarify the dates and conditions of participation.

Be prepared for hospitality: Georgians are very hospitable, but it is important to remember the rules of respect and behavior on a family holiday. Hospitality is the foundation of Georgian culture, so accept it with respect.

The Rtveli Festival is a unique opportunity not only to see Georgian traditions, but also to become a part of them. It is a celebration of work, family and, of course, wine, which symbolizes life and well-being. If you have the opportunity to visit Georgia in late September or early October, be sure to try to get to this amazing holiday to plunge into the atmosphere of unity, joy and traditions.

Share your impressions about Rtveli in the comments! We will be glad to know your stories, the moments that touched or amazed you. Also read about other national holidays and cultural features of Georgia in the Madloba catalog.