Ruispiri Cellar, also known as Ruispiri Biodynamic Vineyard, is a sprawling winery nestled in the picturesque Telavi Municipality of Georgia’s Kakheti Region. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by the friendly staff, instantly making you feel at home. The serene surroundings, filled with the sounds of chirping birds and breathtaking views of lush valleys framed by the majestic snow-capped Caucasus Mountains, serve as a gentle reminder of the vital connection we share with nature.
Giorgi Aladashvili, the visionary owner of Ruispiri Cellar, believes that this harmonious relationship with the environment is essential for crafting exceptional wines. The winery is dedicated to producing the finest natural wines possible, utilizing exclusively organic and biodynamic methods that prioritize soil health and sustainable practices. If you seek a tranquil escape where you can savor biodynamic wines and organic cuisine, Ruispiri Cellar is the perfect destination!
Giorgi Aladashvili’s passion for winemaking ignited during his time in Switzerland, where he was inspired by environmentally-conscious farms that not only taught the principles of biodynamic viticulture but also provided hands-on experience. His fascination with these practices led him to extend his stay, immersing himself in the world of biodynamic wine. Upon returning to Georgia, Giorgi set out to cultivate his own vineyards, driven by a desire to honor the land and its traditions.
Giorgi firmly believes that winemaking must be rooted in love for the grape, as the vine is a living entity that responds to emotions. He is committed to leaving a healthy planet for future generations, which is why Ruispiri Biodynamic Vineyard operates without pesticides or heavy machinery. Here, you’ll find a diverse array of grape varieties, including Rkatsiteli, Kisi, Khikhvi, Ikalto Red, Ruispiri Mtsvane, Simonaseuli, and Janaura, all flourishing in a nurturing environment.
Honoring Georgia’s rich winemaking heritage that spans 8,000 years, Giorgi exclusively employs qvevri—traditional large earthenware vessels—for the fermentation, storage, and aging of his wines. Ruispiri Cellar produces approximately 3,500 bottles of wine annually, with some of these exquisite offerings finding their way to Switzerland.
In addition to its expansive vineyard and cellar, Ruispiri Biodynamic Vineyard features inviting tasting rooms and cozy accommodations. Guests who choose to stay overnight can enjoy a delightful continental or à la carte breakfast served in an open-air setting, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The on-site restaurant offers a selection of traditional Georgian dishes, perfectly complemented by wine tastings, creating a memorable dining experience. Visitors often rave about the hospitality provided by Giorgi and his knowledgeable staff, as well as the stunning natural landscape that enhances their visit to Ruispiri Cellar.
Organic Offerings: Beyond wine, Ruispiri Cellar also produces organic vodka, dried fruits, and churchkhela, a beloved Georgian snack made from nuts strung on a thread and cooked in flour-thickened grape juice.
Diverse Agriculture: Giorgi cultivates five hectares of land where he grows various crops, including dika wheat, tsiteli doli (red wheat), and shavpkha, which is essential for making traditional Georgian bread. He believes that the relationship between bread and wine is profound and aims to share this philosophy with his guests.
Culinary Experience: At Ruispiri Cellar, visitors can participate in baking Kakhetian Shoti bread in a traditional tone (a circular clay oven), learning the art of Georgian bread-making firsthand.
Looking ahead, Giorgi Aladashvili aims to share the principles of biodynamic winemaking with fellow vintners in the region. His goal is to meet the growing demand for biodynamic products while encouraging others to prioritize the health of the land for future generations.
Important Note: Family-owned wineries like Ruispiri often require advance booking for visits and may not accommodate walk-in travelers. Through Shahina Travel, you can arrange a personalized wine tour, complete with tastings in the cellar, ensuring an unforgettable experience at one of Georgia’s top family wineries.