Georgian Wine - National Wine Agency

The Chairman of the National Wine Agency, Levan Mekhuzla, addressed a meeting with producers regarding the ongoing reform aimed at enhancing the quality of wine.

By decree of the Government of Georgia, in the case of a surplus harvest, if the private sector does not express interest in purchasing grapes, the following prices have been set for state procurement of 1 kg of grapes: For grapes harvested from vine varieties permitted under the Law of Georgia “On Vine and Wine”: Sugar content exceeding 20% – 1.30 GEL Sugar content from 17% to 20% – 0.80 GEL; Sugar content not exceeding 17% – 0.30 GEL; As for Saperavi, Sugar content exceeding 22% – 1.50 GEL; Sugar content from 17% to 22% – 0.90 GEL; Sugar content not exceeding 17% – 0.30 GEL.

At the same time, under the amendments introduced to the Law of Georgia “On Vine and Wine,” starting from May 1 of the current year, consent for the establishment of commercial vineyards will be issued by the LEPL National Wine Agency. Obtaining such consent will be required for individuals who decide to establish vineyards for commercial purposes after May 1 of the current year.

“We all agree that the quality of wine begins in the vineyard and with the grapes. For future development, we have no alternative—only quality. During the harvest, we already introduced price differentiation based on grape quality last year. Experience has shown that even greater emphasis must be placed on quality. We must all recognize our responsibility for the future of the sector and ensure the production of high-quality wine by taking proper care of vineyards and cultivating high-quality grapes,” stated Levan Mekhuzla.

The meeting also addressed innovations introduced in recent years that have positively impacted the grape delivery process, in particular electronic scales, which have simplified the weighing process and made it more reliable.

The meeting held at the National Wine Agency with producers was conducted in a question-and-answer format.