Vinotel is situated on a hillside surrounded by lush greenery and a majestic tree which seems to be making an upward gesture. Visitors hum along to the Waltz Moon Tango performed by a local piano player. The halls are decorated in earthy colors with splashes of color and luxury. Bold furniture designs blend seamlessly with classic forms. The bar is decorated with slanted wooden panels and jewelry-like shapes that transport you to La Belle Epoque.
Vinotel is much more than just a pretty face. One can immediately feel the founder’s principles for good design: he believes in using natural materials, working on simple, organic shapes, and making functional objects beautiful.
We sat with Mr. Kashakashvili and learned more about his vision for Vinotel.
Tell us about your professional experience as a mountaineer.
It is a universal instinct to love the mountains, but this feeling is intensified if you are raised in a country with granite peaks. I was the first Georgian to climb the Seven Summits. It was a great physical and emotional achievement. I am proud of the elegant accents I performed with my fellow mountaineers. They are as valuable as artistic compositions or fine wine.
Your experience in the mountains helped you with your new route at Vinotel
You are alone in the mountains. It’s as if you’re outside of the dimensions of space and time, always facing death. I owe my endurance and dedication to the mountains for helping me create Vinotel despite the harsh skepticism of the 2008 war and the hardships it brought.
What is the story behind Vinotel’s design?
Vinotel was designed to preserve the complexity and beauty of Georgian architecture. We want visitors to feel the richness and spirit of our country.
Vinotel is the perfect place for wine lovers. Tell us more.
Georgia‘s vine-growing tradition began 8000 ago, 3000 before the inventions of writing! Viniculture is our soul and blood. We work with local producers who produce excellent wine because they put their heart and soul into it. Vinotel is the only place to find some of our best wines. Our exclusive collection includes silky Krakhuna and a more sumptuous Cab.
What will you be focusing on?
Vinotel recently hosted 21 wine experts from around the world, a historic event for our country. We work tirelessly on promoting our wines around the world. This is our main focus at the moment.
By Elene Dzebisashvili
Read More @ georgiatoday.ge