When you think of wine and where it is made what comes to mind? France, Italy, Napa Valley, maybe Spain? How about Georgia? Not the state—the Republic of Georgia, in Eastern Europe. Nestled between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountain range, this country of roughly 5 million people is believed to be the birthplace of wine. According to Oz Clark of VINOPOLIS World Wine Guide, “The Transcaucasian region, home today to the Georgians, is one of Vitis Vinifera Sativa land and is believed to have been the place where grapes were first harvested to be made into wine some 7000 years ago…”

Scientists and archaeologists have uncovered wine vessels dating back to 5000 BC. Ancient burial grounds in Georgia also contain wine artifacts including vine trimming tools and wine themed ornaments. Due to the varied climate and rich soil conditions, in Georgia there are a plethora of grape varieties. In fact, there are over 500 species of grapes from which wine makers can choose. If you ever have the opportunity give a glass or a bottle a try, you won’t be disappointed!