The border crossing from Azerbaijan to Georgia. After passport clearance at a hut manned by one staff, we had to walk on this bridge for about 200m to the reception area where our guide waited to meet us. But, before reaching the hut, we had to lug our luggage up a slope for about 600-700m. It was tough for us seniors. In comparison, the border crossing from Georgia to Armenia was "friendlier" - no need to lug luggage upslope but merely walk some 250 -300 m only and on flat roads.

Altogether, we had three wine-tasting sessions and this one in Georgia started it. I would say that their grapes are different from those we are used to. I suppose they don't have taxes imposed on their wines so they are comparatively inexpensive. 

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Wine storage area

Winery staff explaining how grape is fermented n earthen vats buried in the ground.

During fermentation, the grapes in the vats have to be churned over a fixed time-table.

Door to Shaki Khan's Palace, an architectural masterpiece from the late 18th Century. The design incorporates Ottoman, Azerbaijani and Persian styles and it is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. 

The exterior of the palace. No photos were allowed inside. The windows intricately designed using wood, glass and other attractive elements are bound together without nails or adherents. Truly a masterpiece! They have beautifully decorated rooms for residence as well as to receive guests, etc.