Nestled in the picturesque village of Kvaliti, near Zestafoni in western Georgia, Archil Guniava Wine Cellar is a beacon of authenticity in the world of winemaking. This family-owned winery is steeped in tradition, with a legacy that spans over a century. Archil Guniava, a prominent figure in Georgian viticulture, hails from a lineage of winemakers who have been delighting local villagers with their exquisite wines for generations. In 2011, Archil officially registered his winery, and today, it produces between 12,000 and 13,000 bottles annually, with its wines making their way to international markets including the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Denmark, Israel, and Australia.
The wines crafted at Archil Guniava Wine Cellar stand out for their commitment to tradition and quality. Archil emphasizes that the essence of great wine begins in the vineyard. He cultivates his grapes on a 1.5-hectare vineyard situated 300 meters above sea level, where the soil composition and climate conditions are ideal for grape cultivation. Among the traditional Imeretian grape varieties he nurtures are Tsolikauri, Tsitska, Krakhuna, Otskhanuri Sapere, and Dzelshavi. Notably, his daughter Nino played a crucial role in preserving the endangered Mgaloblishvili black grape variety, creating a rare wine that honors this unique heritage.
In their winemaking process, the Guniava family prioritizes manual labor over heavy machinery, opting for organic practices that eschew chemicals. Archil firmly believes that minimal intervention allows for the highest quality products, resulting in wines that truly reflect the terroir.
The Guniava family cellar, built by Archil’s grandfather, is a significant part of their winemaking history, dating back over a hundred years. Here, wine is exclusively produced in qvevri, traditional earthenware vessels that are essential for fermentation, storage, and aging. These qvevri, which have been part of the family’s winemaking heritage for a century, have a total capacity of approximately 15 tons. Visitors to the Archil Guniava Wine Cellar can explore this historical cellar, admire the qvevri vessels, and even see a century-old wine press, all while enjoying specialty wines and home-cooked meals.
The Guniava family’s intuitive understanding of winemaking has earned them a stellar reputation in the region. Archil’s wines are celebrated not only locally but also internationally, with his daughters Mariam and Nino following in his footsteps as accomplished winemakers. Mariam Guniava has established her own winery in Kutaisi, while Nino’s Mgaloblishvili Red has recently become available in stores.
Among the standout offerings from Archil Guniava Wine Cellar are:
Krakhuna 2019: This amber dry wine boasts a savory character with complex aromas of orange zest, apples, and peach. Made from organically grown Krakhuna grapes, this wine is fermented and aged without any additives. With an alcohol content of 12.5%, it pairs beautifully with meat and cheese dishes.
Otskhanuri Sapere – Tsolikouri (Red): A captivating red wine with an alcohol content of 12%, it features high tannins and acidity. This wine is crafted from the Otskhanuri Sapere grape, complemented by a hint of Tsolikauri white grape. It is known for its subtle flavors of forest fruits and herbs.
2019 Archil Guniava Tsitska-Tsolikouri-Krakhuna: This blend, like all of Archil’s wines, is produced from organically grown grapes with minimal intervention. It has an alcohol content of 13%, a medium amber color, and medium tannins. This versatile wine pairs excellently with fish, salads, and various meat dishes.
If you’re planning to explore Georgia’s enchanting Imereti Region, a visit to Archil Guniava Wine Cellar is an absolute must. Experience flavorful homemade wine, savor delicious home-cooked meals, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Guniava family.
Important Visitor Information
Please note that family wineries like Archil Guniava often require prior booking for visits and may not accommodate walk-in travelers. For a seamless experience, consider arranging your wine visit through Shahina Travel, which maintains exclusive relationships with top family wineries in Georgia. This way, you can enjoy a guided tour and tasting in the cellar, enriching your understanding of Georgian winemaking traditions.
Region: Imereti
Story: Archil Guniava Wine Cellar is a cherished family winery located in the western Imereti region of Georgia. With a deep-rooted history in traditional Georgian winemaking, the Guniava family has dedicated generations to perfecting their craft. They cultivate local grape varieties on a 1.5-hectare vineyard using organic methods, producing an impressive annual output of around 12,000 bottles. Their commitment to quality and authenticity has garnered international acclaim, with wines exported to various countries around the globe. Archil Guniava is also proud to be a member of the Natural Wine Association, further underscoring his dedication to natural winemaking practices.
Location: Village Kvaliti, Zestafoni Municipality, Region Imereti, Georgia
Land: Positioned at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, Archil Guniava Wine Cellar enjoys optimal conditions for grape cultivation. The fertile soil and favorable climate of the Imereti region, combined with the humid air flowing in from the Black Sea and the nearby Kvirila River, create a perfect environment for viticulture. This unique geographical setting contributes to the rich flavors and quality of the wines produced.
Export Contact:
Archil Guniava Wine Cellar
Village Kvaliti, Zestafoni Municipality, Region Imereti, Georgia
+995 599 53 42 95
archilguniavawinecellar@gmail.com