Numisi Cellar Museum: A Journey into Georgian Winemaking History

Nestled in the picturesque village of Velistsikhe, in the heart of Kakheti's renowned wine region, the Numisi Cellar Museum offers a captivating glimpse into Georgia's ancient winemaking traditions. Established in 2010, this private historical museum is located in one of Georgia's most storied wine cellars, dating back to the 16th century. The museum itself is housed within a beautifully restored stone building, constructed with white river stones and bricks, showcasing the classical architecture of the region. Inside, visitors can explore the arched wine storage, complete with a centuries-old limestone wine press (Satsnakheli) and 33 qvevri (traditional clay wine pitchers) buried beneath the ground for wine fermentation. The museum boasts a collection of over 5,000 artifacts, including clay, glass, copper, and wooden vessels, offering insights into Georgia's long and vibrant winemaking history. Beyond winemaking artifacts, the museum also features exquisite women's jewelry, 18th-century brass wine vessels, old carpets, and traditional furnishings. Rare artifacts, such as an old French grape press machine and vintage German wine allocator pumps, add to the museum's unique appeal. Visitors can also explore a permanent ethnographic exhibition that spans centuries of Georgian culture. The Numisi Wine Cellar-Museum offers visitors the opportunity to savor naturally aged wine straight from the qvevri and enjoy a traditional Kakhetian lunch, with the chance 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 a welcoming and entertaining atmosphere.