Shumi Winery Kakheti, Telavi Travel Guide

Shumi Winery, established in 1997, stands as a modern cornerstone of Georgia's rich winemaking history, located in the heart of Kakheti's Tsinandali region. The name 'Shumi' itself, meaning 'the best wine' in old Georgian, reflects the winery's commitment to producing exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region. The winery's logo features a griffin, paying homage to the mythical creature said to have gifted the first bunch of grapes to mankind.Shumi Winery isn't just a place for production; it's a cultural and wine tourism complex. It boasts over 300 hectares of vineyards in various microzones, allowing for a diverse range of wines that highlight the unique terroir of each location. Shumi was also the first in Georgia to adopt biodynamic and green harvesting methods. The winery is home to the world's largest private collection of living vines, with over 900 varieties, and Georgia's first Wine Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts. Visitors can immerse themselves in Georgian culture through activities like grape harvesting, bread baking, and cooking traditional dishes.Shumi produces a wide array of wines, including Tsinandali, Napareuli, and Kindzmarauli, using both traditional Georgian methods (Qvevri winemaking) and European techniques. The winery has earned over 350 international awards, including being named 'The Best Producer of Georgia' at the MUNDUS VINI competition in Germany.