About us

Maciej Popek and Tornike Minadze combined their strengths, experiences, and passions, which began during their travels and meetings in Georgia. Their collaboration dates back to the time when Maciej visited Tornike in his homeland. The Georgian wine culture, particularly the wine production method in qvevri, left a lasting impression on him.

Maciej’s Travels to Georgia and Inspiration from Tornike’s Vineyard

Maciej frequently visited Tornike in Georgia, where he had the opportunity to explore Tornike’s family vineyard, Phersvi, which he runs with his brother. During these visits to the Imereti region, Maciej had direct exposure to the wine production process in qvevri—ancient clay amphorae buried in the ground, which give the wine its distinctive character and deep flavor. These experiences inspired Maciej to bring a piece of this tradition to Krakow, leading to the idea of opening his own wine bar.

The Idea for CiutCiut in Krakow and Wine Production in Qvevri

Maciej envisioned opening a wine bar in Krakow that would combine wine tasting with qvevri wine production. In the basement of his future venue, he wanted to create a wine cellar where qvevri, imported from Georgia, could be placed to produce wine on-site. The amphorae he brought to Krakow eventually found their home in the cellar of the CiutCiut wine bar.

The Idea for Collaboration During a Supra in Georgia

During one of Maciej’s visits to Tornike, they both participated in a traditional supra—a Georgian feast that is not only a meal but also a time for sharing stories, dreams, and future plans. It was in this atmosphere that the idea of collaboration emerged. Why not join forces and work together in the wine industry in Poland? Tornike, with his experience and deep understanding of wine culture, and Maciej, full of enthusiasm to introduce Georgian traditions to Krakow, both agreed that their visions complemented each other perfectly. This conversation at the supra became the foundation of their future partnership.

Renovation and Finishing Work – Creative Teamwork

The renovation and finishing work were completed by Maciej, Tornike, and Tomasz Galos, Maciej’s long-time business partner and friend. Together, they transformed the raw interior of the venue into a cozy, atmospheric wine bar, which has since become a gathering place and tasting spot for wine lovers in Krakow and the surrounding area. Maciej and Tomasz managed the renovation, prepared the space, and crafted the bar’s furnishings—from shelves to decorative elements to specialized storage for qvevri wines.

Opening of CiutCiut Wine Bar – A Polish-Georgian Collaboration in the Heart of Krakow

CiutCiut Wine Bar is more than just a place to taste wines; it’s also a space to promote the techniques of Georgian wine production. The cellar, filled with qvevri, became the heart of the venue, where wines are produced in the tradition that Tornike brought from Georgia. Thanks to their collaboration, the wines produced on-site have an authentic character, inspired by Georgian terroir and culture.

Shared Vision and Goal – Promoting Wine Culture

CiutCiut is not just a wine bar; it’s a place dedicated to education, creating a space for gatherings, and promoting both Polish and Georgian winemaking traditions. Tornike, with his deep knowledge of qvevri and wine, and Maciej, with his passion and understanding of local culture, created a space that merges their visions and encourages the exploration of winemaking traditions.