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Georgian Bagpipes

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Monday, 29 June, 2015

Our itinerary has been restructured somewhat. Now we are going to Jaani at Zura Topuridze’s epic revival Gurian Vineyards. Along the way we stop at a famous bridge.

Walking to the Bridge. I decide to stay up top
The Steep Stairs and the guys at the bottom
Some on the bridge
Julie took this photo from the riverside

There were a number of roadside stalls there to cater from the tourists. We did not need anything and moved on, although there were some nice people there. We continue on to Zura Topuridze’s winery. What was the first thing we saw:

He grows, picks, dries and sells tobacco
Ancient machine for cutting dried tobacco
Andrew and Besu trying the local product

Zura Topuridze had lots of ancient toys to show to us. The following are just a couple.

Note the ancient baby cradles

We were shown a room that will eventually be a restaurant and museum
Julie took pictures of the women making khachapuri

Our Host’s Honours
We are to have another lunch feast
Vine leaves et al
On the Plate

We are joined at lunch by two local musicians. After a while one starts playing a unique local musical instrument called a gudastviri or a Georgian Bagpipe. Quite amazing really.

Playing the gudastviri
Our host, and the musicians, propose many toasts with this ritual drinking
Julie and Patrick (from Janet Walters)
Hugh and Jan (from Janet Walters)
Bryn contirubtes Aussie music to the celebrations with his version of a didgeriedoo
The finished product from the kitchen
Bryn having a go – needs a bit more practice
More music and dance. Note the usual large collection of food still on the table

It was a truly memorable and emotional day. Sadly we had to say goodbye to our Hosts and return to Batumi. There is time for Julie to have a massage but that is initially screwed up to.

We go out later for another dinner in Batumi.

Private room out the back
The Gardens

So it is back to the Hotel for another night. We won’t say anything about somebody walking in their sleep and getting locked out of the room.

 

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