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Pheasant's Tears Winery: A Taste of Georgian Tradition

Experience Georgia's ancient winemaking traditions at Pheasant's Tears Winery in Sighnaghi, where passion, culture, and exquisite wines intertwine.

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Pheasant's Tears Winery, nestled in Sighnaghi, Georgia, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country's ancient winemaking traditions. Founded by an American painter and a Georgian winemaker, the winery uses traditional qvevri (clay vessels) to create natural wines, reflecting the soul of Georgian culture. With its acclaimed wines, welcoming atmosphere, and stunning views of the Alazani Valley, Pheasant's Tears is a must-visit for wine lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Pheasant's Tears Winery

  • Monday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-11 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during September or late October for the Rtveli (harvest) season to witness the winemaking process firsthand.
  • Try the Kisi or Rkatsiteli wines, known for their unique amber color and complex flavors.
  • Enjoy a meal at the restaurant to savor authentic Georgian cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.
  • Take a tour of the winery and vineyards to learn about the traditional qvevri winemaking method.
  • Book your tickets back to Tbilisi in advance, since marshrutkas are usually full.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Sighnaghi, Pheasant's Tears Winery is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the upper part of town, near the main square and follow signs for the winery. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, offering scenic views of the town and surrounding Alazani Valley.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Sighnaghi. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the town center to Pheasant's Tears Winery will cost approximately 5-10 GEL. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes only a few minutes.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by marshrutka (minibus) from Tbilisi or other nearby towns, you'll be dropped off at the Sighnaghi bus station. From there, walk towards the town center and follow the signs to Pheasant's Tears Winery, about a 15-minute walk uphill. Alternatively, take a taxi from the bus station for around 5-10 GEL.

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Discover more about Pheasant's Tears Winery

Pheasant's Tears Winery, located in the heart of Sighnaghi, is more than just a winery; it's an immersive experience into the heart of Georgian culture and winemaking. Sighnaghi, a town known as the 'City of Love,' boasts a rich history as a royal town and a key trading hub along the Great Silk Road, complete with stunning views of the Alazani Valley. The winery was founded in 2007 by John Wurdeman, an American painter with a passion for Georgian culture, and Gela Patalishvili, a winemaker from a family with eight generations of winemaking history. Wurdeman's journey to winemaking began with a love for Georgian folk music and a realization of Georgia's undiscovered cultural gems. Inspired by a local legend that only the finest wine can bring a pheasant to tears of joy, Wurdeman and Patalishvili set out to revive traditional Georgian winemaking methods. Pheasant's Tears specializes in wines made using the qvevri method, an ancient Georgian technique where wine is fermented and aged in beeswax-lined clay vessels buried underground. This method, endemic to Georgia, allows for natural fermentation with only natural yeast, resulting in wines that express the unique terroir and character of the region. The winery cultivates grapes organically in its vineyards, ensuring high-quality wines. The winery's restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience, with dishes made from fresh, local ingredients sourced daily from the farmer's market. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, with staff who treat guests like family. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, food pairings, and live music, immersing themselves in Georgian hospitality and traditions. Pheasant's Tears is not just a place to taste wine; it's a place to connect with the soul of Georgia, its history, its culture, and its people.

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