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Numisi Cellar Museum: A Journey Through Georgian Winemaking History

Explore Georgia's winemaking heritage at Numisi Cellar Museum in Velistsikhe: a blend of history, culture, and exquisite wine tasting experiences.

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Discover the rich legacy of Georgian winemaking at the Numisi Cellar Museum in Velistsikhe, Kakheti. Explore ancient artifacts, traditional winemaking tools, and savor naturally aged wines in a 16th-century cellar, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.

A brief summary to Numisi Cellar Museum

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore the museum's extensive collection of artifacts.
  • Don't miss the opportunity to taste the naturally aged wine straight from the Qvevri for an authentic experience.
  • Check the schedule for live Georgian folk music performances to enhance your visit.
  • Consider participating in the traditional Kakhetian bread baking (Shoti) for a hands-on cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Numisi Cellar Museum via public transport, begin at the Telavi bus station. Take a marshrutka (minibus) towards Kvareli. The ride should take approximately 30-40 minutes. Request the driver to stop at Velistsikhe. From the Velistsikhe stop, walk northwest for about 10 minutes, following signs towards RQ52. The museum will be on your right. Expect to pay around 4 GEL for the minibus fare.

  • Taxi

    From Kvareli, a taxi to Numisi Cellar Museum in Velistsikhe will cost approximately 20-30 GEL and take around 15-20 minutes. You can find taxis readily available in Kvareli's central areas. Alternatively, use a ride-hailing app for convenience. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Note that prices may vary based on demand and time of day.

  • Driving

    If driving from Telavi, head southeast on Shota Rustaveli Street towards Gomi Street. After about 3 kilometers, merge onto the Tbilisi - Telavi - Lagodekhi highway (E117). Continue for approximately 16 kilometers until the turnoff for RQ52. Turn left onto RQ52 and follow the road for around 5 kilometers. The Numisi Cellar Museum will be on your right at RQ52+46V, Kvareli-Mukuzani, Velistsikhe. Parking is generally available at the museum. Note that fuel costs are variable.

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Discover more about Numisi Cellar Museum

The Numisi Cellar Museum, nestled in the picturesque village of Velistsikhe in Kakheti, is a captivating window into Georgia's storied winemaking traditions. Established in 2010 as a private historical museum, it welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the rich legacy of Georgian winemaking, with roots stretching back to the 16th century. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored stone building, showcasing the classical architecture of the region. Inside, the museum boasts a remarkable collection of over 5,000 artifacts, including clay, glass, copper, and wooden vessels, each narrating a part of Georgia's vibrant winemaking history. You'll find beautifully arched wine storage, a centuries-old limestone wine press known as a Satsnakheli, and 33 Qvevri (traditional clay wine pitchers) buried beneath the ground for wine fermentation. The collection extends beyond winemaking tools to include exquisite women's jewelry, 18th-century brass wine vessels, old carpets, and traditional furnishings, offering a glimpse into the broader ethnographic context. Rare artifacts like an old French grape press machine and vintage German wine allocator pumps add to the museum's unique appeal. A visit to Numisi is more than just a historical tour; it's an immersive experience. Guests can savor naturally aged wine straight from the Qvevri and enjoy a traditional Kakhetian lunch, with the opportunity to bake traditional Kakhetian bread (Shoti) and listen to live Georgian folk music. The museum's picturesque terrace and charming village courtyard, complete with a mini-garden and grapevines, create an inviting atmosphere. The museum is open daily except Monday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Velistsikhe itself is an ancient village, dating back to the 5th or 6th century, adding to the historical significance of the location. Once a fortress on the plain, it played a role in the region's political and cultural life. Today, it's a charming village in the Alazani Valley, known for its wineries and traditional Georgian architecture.

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