19/08/2026
đ Did you know Georgia has been growing tea for almost 180 years?
Itâs one of those Georgian stories that somehow doesnât get nearly enough attention.
Georgiaâs tea history began in 1847, and by the end of the 19th century, tea was already being produced on an industrial scale. To help develop the industry, tea specialists were brought all the way from China - a fascinating connection between two very different tea cultures.
For decades, Georgian tea was an important part of the countryâs agricultural life, especially in the lush, subtropical regions of Western Georgia. But political and economic changes in the late 20th century nearly brought the industry to an end.
Today, Georgian tea is making a quiet comeback. One of the people helping to revive this tradition is S***a Bitadze. He grows tea on his own plantation, supports other local farmers, and has created a wonderful Tea Museum in Tbilisi, where you can learn about Georgiaâs tea story and even experience a traditional tea ceremony.
So next time youâre in Tbilisi, take a break from wine and discover another fascinating side of Georgian culture. đ”
đBitadze Tea museum
15 Galaktion Tabidze