Château Mukhrani’s modern story began in 2002 when a group of investors purchased and restored this abandoned territory. The original wine cellar, vineyards, 19th-century palace, and garden had nearly disappeared, but the memory of Ivane Mukhranbatoni, a descendant of the royal family Bagration and a prominent figure in the 19th century, lived on. His vision for the estate, conceived in 1878, proved compatible with modernity.
Ivane Mukhranbatoni, with a vision that combined Georgian traditions with European winemaking and viticulture approaches, set out on a quest to master the art of winemaking. He traveled to France, learning from the experts before returning to build his estate in one of the finest terroirs in Kartli. decided to introduce the concept of a château in Georgia. He implemented contemporary winemaking methods and started producing wonderful Georgian wines on the ancestral Mukhrani estate.
Mukhranbatoni’s estate was fashioned after a Château, complete with a vineyard, wine fermentation cellar and palace with a beautiful garden for hosting guests. Build in the XIX century, the palace and surrounding gardens were designed by French architects. The construction of the palace took 12 years to complete. Both palace and grounds captured visitors’ attention. This huge venue was a cultural center for the Georgian and foreign elite. Prince Ivane Mukhranbatoni hosted many guests, including public figures, writers, poets, and artists. The palace was famous for its Italian gilded furniture together with the first European parquet in Georgia. The result of his efforts was astounding. Mukhranbatoni’s wines, particularly his sparkling wine and Mukhrani #5, captured the attention of Europe, earning two gold medals at the Exhibition Universelle of 1889 in Paris. This success not only showcased the excellence of Georgian wine but also emphasized the compatibility of Mukhranbatoni’s vision with the modern world. Through his visionary approach, Mukhranbatoni not only revolutionized winemaking techniques in a country with its own rich winemaking traditions but also pioneered new standards of hospitality. Today, the restoration of Château Mukhrani seeks to honor his legacy by blending the elegance of the past with the aspirations of the present.
During the early stages of Château Mukhrani’s development, those involved vividly recall the unexplored wine-making region of Kartli. Despite the estate’s dilapidated condition, it remained devoted to its original vision and had a clear image of its potential.
Reviving the hospitality sector required the restoration of the historic palace. The once-abandoned monument with weathered walls had to be revived while maintaining its original character. Renowned architect Juan Pablo Molyneux, with his expertise in restoring historical palaces, was entrusted with the task. He immersed himself in Georgia’s palaces, drawing inspiration from their unique styles and influences. Guided by this heritage, the rehabilitation team meticulously recreated the interior spaces of Château Mukhrani, capturing the essence of the era. Through this dedicated effort, the estate now stands as a testament to its rich legacy, honoring the past while providing a welcoming environment for visitors.
Today, this historic estate near to Tbilisi beautifully blends the past and present. Château Mukhrani practices full organic viticulture, and in the parts of 102-ha organic vineyards, with international, they carry to restore unique grape varieties of the Kartli – emphasizing the uniqueness of this terroir. Special attention is paid here to maintaining quality and authenticity, turning the spotlight on the diversity of Georgian varieties, and blending different kinds of grapes as part of a continuous process of searching and experimenting. With a reconstructed palace, cellars, and winery, it offers a glimpse into its rich history. Guests can enjoy fine dining at Palace Dining Hall and a new fine dining and event space called L’Orangerie, and experience upscale hospitality. Château Mukhrani provides a variety of elegant event spaces and top-class hospitality services, guaranteeing an outstanding experience for guests. Visitors come for wine tastings, festive dinners, picnics, horse-riding tours, and nearby historical sights. Château Mukhrani’s charm lies in its retold history, thoughtful reinterpretations, and transformed cultural legacy.
