Vinotel stands on a hillside bathed in lush greenery, fronting a majestic tree that seems to be making a little gesture toward the sky. Inside, visitors hum to the chorus of the Waltz Moon tango performed by a local pianist. The halls are decked in earthy tones, with bursts of luxury and color. Bold furniture designs pair effortlessly with classic forms. The bar is adorned with slanted wood panels and jewelry-like silhouettes that transport you back to La Belle Époque.
But Vinotel is more than a pretty face. One instantly feels the principles the founder holds fundamental to good design, like honoring natural materials, working with simple, organic forms, and making the functional beautiful.
We sat down with Mr. Kashakashvili to learn more about his vision and plans for Vinotel.
Tell us about your experience as a professional mountaineer.
Relishing the magic of mountains is a universal instinct, but it gets more intense if you grow up in a country belted with granite peaks. I was the first Georgian man to climb the Seven Summits, an immense physical and emotional triumph. With the help of my fellow mountaineers, I performed elegant accents that I’m proud of because, as valuable artistic compositions or good wine, they never lose eminence.
Did your experience in the mountains help your new route with Vinotel?
Up in the mountains, you stand alone, as if outside the dimensions of time and space, always looking death in the eye. I owe the mountains the endurance and devotion I drew on to create Vinotel in the face of harsh skepticism and the hardships inflicted by the 2008 war.
What is the story behind Vinotel’s design?
When designing Vinotel, we made every effort to preserve the complexity and elegance of Georgian architecture. We want to immerse visitors in our country’s rich temperament and spirit.
Vinotel is a true haven for wine lovers. Tell us more about it.
Georgia’s vine growing tradition began 8000 years ago, 3000 years before the invention of writing! Viniculture is in our soul, our blood. We work with local winemakers who produce excellent wines because they pour their heart and soul into the process. Some of the greatest among our wines are rarely found beyond Vinotel’s walls. Our exclusive collection ranges from silky Krakhuna to a more sumptuous Cabernet.
What are you focusing on next?
A while ago, Vinotel hosted 21 wine experts from all over the world – a momentous event for our country. We work tirelessly to promote our wines worldwide. This is our primary focus right now.
By Elene Dzebisashvili
