Chateau Mukhrani, one of the oldest and most esteemed wineries in Georgia, stands as a testament to the rich winemaking traditions initiated by Prince Ivane Mukhranbatoni, a notable descendant of the illustrious Bagrationi Dynasty from the 19th century. Inspired by the art of winemaking during his studies in France in 1876, the prince returned to his homeland to establish the winery shortly thereafter. Today, Chateau Mukhrani is celebrated for its stunning castle, sprawling vineyards, meticulously restored wine cellars, and a charming 19th-century restaurant.
The Mukhrani Estate became part of the royal Bagrationi family’s holdings in the 16th century, but it wasn’t until 1873 that Prince Ivane Mukhranbatoni embarked on the construction of its magnificent palace, which was completed twelve years later. Designed by skilled French architects, the castle featured an amphitheater on the ground floor that could host over 150 guests, while the upper levels boasted numerous elegant lounges. The palace gardens, expertly designed by a landscaper from Versailles, consistently captivated visitors with their beauty. Prince Ivane was known for hosting prominent Georgian literary figures, including Ilia Chavchavadze and Akaki Tsereteli. The estate flourished as a cultural hub, esteemed by the Georgian elite.
However, following Prince Ivane’s death in 1895, the vibrancy of life at the palace began to wane. In 1897, his son, Constantine Mukhranbatoni, sold the estate to the state treasury for 780,000 Georgian maneti, a currency that has since become obsolete. The estate changed hands numerous times, leading to a series of burglaries that resulted in the loss of much of its unique furniture. The palace ultimately fell into disrepair after the National Guard Headquarters, led by Tengiz Kitovani, was stationed there in the early 1990s.
In the early 2000s, the Chateau Mukhrani Restoration Project was launched with the goal of reviving the estate to its former splendor. This ambitious initiative has proven successful, and today, Chateau Mukhrani is a vibrant complex that includes the main chateau, a restaurant, wine cellars, an old production facility, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It produces an array of exquisite wines and warmly welcomes visitors from around the globe.
The wine cellars at Chateau Mukhrani are a key attraction, seamlessly connecting the palace to the winery. These impressive vaults, capable of holding over 60,000 barrels, maintain a consistent temperature year-round, creating the ideal conditions for aging wine. The cellars have been meticulously restored to their original grandeur, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the ambiance as it would have been in the 19th century.
The Royal Cellar Restaurant at Chateau Mukhrani first opened its doors in 1878, the same year that Prince Ivane Mukhranbatoni produced his inaugural bottle of Mukhrani wine. The restaurant’s enchanting interior remains reminiscent of that era, providing an inviting atmosphere for guests. Offering impeccable service and a diverse menu that features both Georgian and European cuisine, the restaurant has reproduced the royal dishes that Prince Ivane once celebrated. Each meal is thoughtfully paired with a wine recommendation from the knowledgeable staff, enhancing the dining experience.
Chateau Mukhrani produces a wide range of wines, benefiting from a unique microclimate that allows grapes to flourish in optimal conditions. Some of the most sought-after varieties include:
Goruli Mtsvane: A distinctive dry white wine crafted from a local grape variety. This wine presents aromas of yellow plum and melon, complemented by refreshing citrus notes. It begins with a green hue that transitions to a light straw color.
Reserve Royale Saperavi: An exquisite red wine made from the renowned Saperavi grape. It displays a deep purple color, sometimes leaning toward dark blue, and boasts enticing aromas of mulberry, blackberry, and cherry. With the potential to age gracefully for up to 15 years, this wine pairs beautifully with red meats and a variety of cheeses.
Muscat: A rich and aromatic dessert wine characterized by its dark amber color. This delightful wine features enticing aromas of figs, prunes, and chocolate, making it an ideal companion for an assortment of fresh fruits. The Chateau Mukhrani Muscat Bianco is an Italian variety that leaves a lasting impression with its unforgettable taste.
At the Chateau Mukhrani Wine Studio in Tbilisi, visitors can sample and purchase a selection of wines produced at the estate, alongside a unique assortment of exquisite Georgian cheeses, creating a delightful pairing experience that showcases the best of Georgian culinary traditions.
For those eager to explore this historic winery, Chateau Mukhrani offers a variety of engaging experiences. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the estate, where they will learn about the rich history of the winery, the intricacies of the winemaking process, and the significance of the Bagrationi Dynasty in Georgian culture.
Chateau Mukhrani
Address: Mukhrani, Mtskheta, 3309, Georgia
Telephone: +995 595 99 13 15/16
Guided Tours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Restaurant Hours:
Chateau Mukhrani Wine Bar
Address: 6 Samghebro St., Maidan Square, Tbilisi, Georgia
Telephone: +995 577 11 19 50