Khashmi – Saperavi and Historic Churches

Khashmi lies on the southwestern slope of the Gombori Range and on the left bank of the Iori River. The village’s name is closely associated with Saperavi Khashmi: a protected appellation wine and dry red wine from the Khashmi microzone. Two historic landmarks also shape the area: a Trinity Church ten kilometers from Khashmi and the nearby Mother of God complex. Wine and architectural history give you two different ways to explore Khashmi as a destination.

Wine from the Khashmi Microzone

The Khashmi microzone is associated with a climate ranging from dry subtropical to moderately humid transitional conditions. It also has brown carbonate soils and the characteristic qualities of the Saperavi grape variety. Together, these features place the protected wine within a specific landscape and winemaking context. Saperavi Khashmi is classified as a dry red wine; the appellation name, grape variety, and style can be distinguished when describing it. The place name identifies the microzone, Saperavi the grape variety, and “dry, red” the wine style.

Cellars and Tastings

Chateau Khashmi is a family winery in Khashmi. Its wines are made in qvevri using traditional Kakhetian methods and are described as unfiltered and 100 percent natural. Chateau Khashmi offers Khashmi Saperavi as a dry red, unfiltered qvevri wine. As the product list may change, check in advance whether the wine you want is currently available.

Tedo Papa Cellar produces Khashmi Saperavi and Rkatsiteli from its own vineyards, also using traditional Kakhetian methods. Visitors can taste Khashmi Saperavi there and eat traditional Georgian dishes made from natural products; advance confirmation may be required. The cellar dates to the 18th century, preserves old objects, and was formerly used by Prince Cholokashvili as an auxiliary cellar. At Tedo Papa, wine production is accompanied by a history of traditional use and the opportunity to enjoy a tasting with food.

Churches and Historic Traces

The Trinity Church, ten kilometers from Khashmi, dates to the late fifth or early sixth century and was formerly known as Katsareti Trinity. The Mother of God complex is near Khashmi; its church dates to the 14th or 15th century and is known for its frescoes. The surviving structures of the complex include enclosure walls, towers, a hall, and outbuildings. An old caravan route also passed through the site. The historic landmarks therefore differ both in their dates and in what characterizes them: the Trinity Church’s early date, and the frescoes and surviving architectural features of the Mother of God complex.

Practical Information for Visiting the Mother of God Complex

Reaching the Mother of God complex requires crossing the Lafian khevi. The river is usually dry; winter is recommended for the easiest crossing. As water conditions can vary seasonally, check the conditions before your visit.

Khashmi in Its Regional Context

Kakheti is Georgia’s most important wine-growing region and is known for its large qvevri, including vessels with a capacity of 6,000 to 8,000 liters. Kakheti’s well-known dishes include mtsvadi, chakapuli, khashlama, churchkhela, and tatara made from grape juice. These regional connections broaden the picture beyond the wines produced by individual cellars in Khashmi. Visitors can also eat traditional Georgian dishes made from natural products at Tedo Papa Cellar; the dishes mentioned here further illustrate Kakheti’s culinary diversity.

Discover more destinations: Dartlo, Vardisubani, Sighnaghi, Gurjaani, Lagodekhi, Sagarejo, Kvareli Municipality, Tsinandali

Return to the regional travel overview: Kakheti.