Marleta's Farm: A Taste of Rural Georgian Life

Marleta's Farm, located in Shalauri village just a few kilometers from Telavi, is a hidden gem offering a unique experience of rural Georgia. Unlike typical farms, Marleta's is known for its artisanal cheeses, blending traditional Georgian methods with French technology. Founded by Sopo Gorgadze and Leo Tsaguria, the farm began as a hobby after friends gifted them a cow named Marleta. Today, it's a sophisticated venue adorned with vibrant murals by Sopo's father, Malkhaz Gorgadze, creating an open-air exhibition called 'Paradise Lost'. The farm features an open cafe where visitors can enjoy cheese platters with fresh fruit, honey, prosciutto, and nuts. For larger groups, Sopo hosts gastronomic dinners and cooking classes. Marleta's Farm produces nearly four tons of cheese a year, including unique varieties like Ashmelo, a cow's milk cheese with white mold and activated charcoal, and Bona, a soft goat cheese with white mold. The farm also makes jams, adjika, and prosciutto, sold in boutique shops and restaurants in Tbilisi. Visitors can tour the cheese factory and aging refrigerator, learning about cheese-making from Leo's extensive research. The farm is committed to sustainable practices, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers.