Travel Guide to Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

The Racha-Lechkhumi wine region has a very important place among the wine regions of Georgia and is distinguished by its diversity. Although the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is very small, it creates the best conditions for the production of various grape varieties, including rare ones. The Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is mostly associated with semi-sweet wines and the best-known PDOs for its production. Although it must be said that the practice of making dry wines has increased significantly in recent years.

Find out about Wine Tasting & Tours in Racha-Lechkhumi wine region to enjoy if you visit the region.

Continue reading our travel guide to the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region to discover more about:

Wines of Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Places to visit in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Food to try in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Discover "sweet' wine region of Georgia

Let’s Meet Colorful Racha-Lechkhumi Region and its Varied Terroirs

The Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is a mountainous region of western Georgia. It is located between Imereti and the Greater Caucasus. The administrative and winemaking centre of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is Ambrolauri municipality. The rivers Rioni and Tskhenis Tskali are important components to forming the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region terroir.

The humid subtropical climate is observed in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. The moisture rate is also high, and consequently, the level of annual precipitation. There are cold winters and hot, dry summers in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region.

The soil data of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is as diverse as the wine variety, although we can mainly distinguish lime-containing and humus-carbonate soils, also clay, clay with flint, and sandy clay soils are observed there too.  The Racha-Lechkhumi wine region will easily win your heart in all seasons, but there is nothing more beautiful to observe than the vineyards painted in autumn colours on the mountain slopes.

Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region Map

You can also check out our interactive map of the Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region to discover wineries with open cellar doors.

What to Expect from The Visit to Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

The area of vineyards in ​​the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is about 1600 hectares. The Racha wines of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region seem to be deeper and more complex as if they have more stories to tell you. The Racha-Lechkhumi wine region uses both classical and European wine-making technology, as well as traditional Georgian methods, including putting wine in pitchers (Qvevri). A Qvevri is a specially shaped clay vessel that is buried in the ground. The wine is matured at a stable temperature under the ground with the influence of the micro-oxidation process, which gives the Qvevri wines a special colour and aroma. In Racha-Lechkhumi, as in other parts of western Georgia, it is called Churi. It should also be noted that since 2013, UNESCO has placed the ancient tradition of Qvevri winemaking on the list of intangible cultural heritage.

As we have already mentioned, a significant part of the wine produced in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is occupied by semi-sweet wines. The production of semi-sweet wines in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is linked to favourable environmental conditions for achieving high sugar content. Also, it is connected to Georgia's past presence in the Soviet Union, on the market in which, semi-sweet wines were in demand. From year to year, this approach is gradually abandoned and more and more winemakers are making dry wines from grape varieties that are mostly associated with semi-sweet wines even for the Georgian people.

Learn More about Racha Wines

Usakhelauri - Semi-sweet red wine from slopes of mountains

Usakhelouri is a local red grapevine variety that is mainly distributed in the Tsageri district in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. The Zubi-Okureshi micro-district is most famous for the production of this grape, where naturally semi-sweet red wine of high quality is produced. Even to see the Usakhelouri vineyards on the mountain slopes, it is worth visiting the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. The production of this grape is quite limited, and its cost is significantly higher compared to other grape varieties. The intense pomegranate colour, the aromas of the berries of the forest, the pleasant sweetness, and the gentle structure make it a truly distinctive wine. Whether you love sweet wines or not, they will easily win your heart and make you flirt unnoticed.

In the aromas of Usakhelouri we can choose:

• Forest berry fruits
• Wild strawberries
• Mountain raspberries
• Blueberries
• Ripe fruits

Aleksandrouli – Lighter but deeper

Aleksandrouli is an indigenous grape variety and is mostly distributed in the villages of Kvemo Racha in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. From this grape, red semi-sweet Khvanchkara is produced in the PDO of Khvanchkara. However, making dry wine from it is becoming a more and more common practice day by day. Aleksandrouli is installed using both classical European techniques and Georgian traditional Qvevri technology. They also produce rosé wine from Aleksandrouli.  Red, dry Alexandrouli, unlike other red-bellied grape varieties in Georgia, has a less intense colour in the wine, as well as a brick-coloured hue. The variety of flavours and the complexity of the wine will make you fall in love with this wine at first sight.

Among the aromas of Alexandroupoli we can choose:

• Raspberry
• Strawberries
• Berries
• Grapefruit
• Mango

Tsulukidzis Tetra – A necessary summer attribution equally suited for all seasons

Tsulukidzis Tetra is known as Rachuli Tetra (white from Racha) throughout Georgia. It is a white grapevine variety from the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. It is used to make naturally semi-sweet white wine. It is noteworthy that in recent years the practice of making dry wine from these grapes is increasing. Semi-sweet wine is characterized by a light straw colour, intense aromas, a medium body, and a gentle, balanced structure.

Among Tsulukidze Tetra flavors we can choose:

• Pear
• Melons
• Yellow ripe fruit
• Tropical fruits
• Dried fruits

PDOs in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

The centre of viticulture in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region is Amblorauli municipality, which belongs to the famous micro-zone of Khvanchkara. The main microzones of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region are Tsageri, Orbeli, Alpana-Tvishi, and Zubi-Okure. The most famous wines of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region are red semi-sweet Khvanchkara and white semi-sweet Tvishi.

PDO Khvanchkara – Semi-sweet wine with velvet tannins

Khvanchkara is located in Ambrolauri municipality, Racha. Its vineyards are mainly located on the slopes of the Likha ridge on the right bank of the river Rioni. Most of the vineyards are cultivated 450-750 meters above sea level. It is these environmental conditions that play a very important role in shaping this particular terroir.

Khvanchkara covers an area of ​​903 hectares. Soil types include humus-carbonate, loamy, deluvial-proluvial and alluvial soil types. A humid climate is found in Khvanchkara, and moderately cold and relatively wetter summers are mostly observed.

It is one of the oldest PDOs in Georgia. Khvanchkara has been produced under the PDO label since 1932. A blend of Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes is used to make the Khvanchkara naturally semi-sweet red wine. Intense purple, full-body, and rich fruit tones make it suitable for many different dishes. Enjoying this velvety wine seems to always be a good idea.

PDO Tvishi – Meet your new favorite semi-sweet wine

Tvishi micro-zone is located in Lechkhumi, Tsageri municipality. The village of the same name is known, which, together with the Alpana, has been given the name of PDO only since 1952. The vineyards are located on the Rioni River valley, 435 meters above sea level. Like PDO Khvanchkara, we have a humid climate here, with cold winters and warm summers. Humus-carbonate soils are mainly present in Tvishi.

In PDO Tvishi, white naturally semi-sweet wine is made from the Tsolikauri grape variety. It should be noted that Tsolikauri is an Imeretian grape variety and it is mainly used for making dry wine, however, the specific natural conditions of the Tvishi micro-zone allow the production of grapes with high sugar content and the possibility of making this special wine Tvishi. The beige colour, yellow fruit aromas, and gentle, harmonious structure in a cool state will make your trip to the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region really hot on warm summer days.

Wineries to Visit in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Sad Meli Winery

Sad Meli Winery is located in Village Sadmeli, of Ambrolauri, Racha-Lechkhumi wine region in Georgia. The unique location allows the guests that visit an opportunity to step away from the noisy city life in exchange for a tranquil and cosy atmosphere. Sad Meli offers a shared lounge, garden and terrace. The wine produced at Sad Meli is made of 100% organically produced grapes. 

Read more about Wineries in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region to visit.

Places to Visit in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Nikortsminda Cathedral - Temple with amazing paintings

Nikortsminda domed church is located in the village of the same name in Ambrolauri municipality in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. Its construction began at the end of the tenth century and is associated with the name of one of the most powerful kings in Georgia, Bagrat III. In addition to its religious significance, this temple soon became the cultural centre of that time in the region. Since 2007, the monastery has been included on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Minda Castle – Close to the sky

Minda Castle is a medieval historical monument. It is located in Ambrolauri municipality in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. Historically, it was a very important fortress because of its strategic position along vital trade routes. Today, only the ruins of the castle survive, though even that is enough to represent its grandeur. The fortress is on the top of a high mountain, enveloped by the sky. It will evoke fantasies about passages of history that have played out in centuries past.

Muri Castle - Chronological reflection of the past

Muri Castle is located in Lechkhumi. It dates back to the early Middle Ages. It must be said that Muri Castle was in operation until the nineteenth century. Interestingly, archaeological discoveries of different epochs chronologically reflect the improvement of weapons and castle building itself. Antique pitchers (Qvevries), bronze, iron, pottery, and gold items have also been found on the site of Muri Castle.

Discover the Magnificent Landscapes of Racha

Sairme Pillars - Stairway to heaven.

Sairme Pillars is a rock massif located in the territory of Lechkhumi. It is possible to visit this monument through hiking trails. This natural monument evokes great modesty upon sight; The pillars of the rock even remind you of a stairway to heaven.

The Lake Udziro – The lake without a bottom

Lake Udziro is located 2800 meters above sea level. Udziro in Georgian means a lake without a bottom. When you stand next to this lake you will see breathtaking views of Racha and the Caucasus. Fascinating silhouettes of peaks are reflected on the surface of the lake.

Cave-freezer – Natural freezer into the mountains

The freezer is a natural cave in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region at 1200 meters above sea level. Ice stalactites, stalagmites, and centuries-old ice columns are found in the cave. In this natural well, the temperature is zero degrees all year round. The dropped water from the rock turns into ice immediately. What about visiting the Freezer during summertime with cold or sparkling white wine?

Local Dishes to Taste in Racha-Lechkhumi Wine Region

Shkmeruli – Chicken in Creamy Garlic Sauce

Shkmeruli is an old dish from the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region. It is one of the most popular and demanded dishes in Georgian restaurants. It should be noted that the name Shkmeruli comes from the village of Shkmeri in Racha. The main ingredients for Shkmeruli are chicken meat, garlic, and milk. Don’t forget to ask your host for dry white amber wine with Shkmeruli to feel all the aromas of this wine region.

Rachuli Lori – Smoked Ham from Racha

Rachuli Lori is smoked ham that has been produced in the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region over the centuries. The portion of the region is quite developed. This region is highly mountainous and surrounded by forests where pigs stay during the day and eat local products. The production of Rachuli Lori begins mainly in November. After the preparation process, which takes around 2 weeks, is finished, starts the smoking period, which lasts about 40 days approximately. Rachuli Lori is used in many local traditional dishes. In general, Rachuli Lori is an important element of Georgian culinary culture.

Rachuli Lobiani – Pie with beans and smoked ham from Racha

Rachuli Lobiani is a very important part of the Racha-Lechkhumi wine region's cuisine and it is even very popular all over Georgia. Rachuli Lobiani is a baked dough with bean stuffing and Rachuli Lori (smoked ham). If you visit Racha-Lechkhumi on cold, rainy winter days, the host will definitely offer you hot-rolled Rachuli Lobiani and in addition to wine, you will also be offered a brand distilled by a local family. It’s an experience that just makes life worth living for.

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