Every year, Georgia warmly welcomes food enthusiasts from around the globe to its renowned Cheese Festival. Since its international debut in 2015, the festival has expanded to include participants from Armenia and Azerbaijan, allowing visitors to indulge in an even wider array of beloved cheeses. In a unique twist, the festival is now held in the region that wins a competitive selection process, adding an exciting element to the celebration. Previously, this sensory feast took place at the picturesque Rike Park in Tbilisi.
The festival’s name clearly reflects its mission: to introduce attendees to the diverse regional varieties of cheese. Guests can savor the robust and flavorful dambal-khacho, a cheese made using traditional methods recognized and protected by UNESCO. They can also delight in the spicy Guda cheese, which matures in a unique sheepskin bag, and the beautifully braided Tenili Kveli from Southern Georgia. The festival offers a tantalizing selection, including cheeses paired with honey, infused oils, aromatic flowers, spices, and even wine! Be sure to arrive with an appetite, as you won’t want to miss out on the rich and diverse flavors waiting to be explored!
Local artisans from various regions take pride in showcasing the ancient tools used in cheese production, sharing fascinating insights about the specific techniques behind their unique varieties. This hands-on experience allows visitors to appreciate the artistry and tradition that goes into each cheese.
If you have a passion for cheese culture and a desire to sample an incredible variety of flavors, Georgia’s Cheese Festival is the perfect destination for you!