Gov't allocates 14 mln GEL to save grapes damaged by heavy hail in Kakheti

The Georgian government has allocated 14 million GEL in subsidies to assist in the harvesting of grapes damaged by heavy hail in the Georgian wine region of Kakheti on August 27 and September 2. 

The government is also subsidising the 2021 grape harvest to financially support farmers during the pandemic.

• Georgian government to subsidise 2021 grape harvest due to high grape yield, post-pandemic situation

In August heavy hail and strong winds destroyed 4,600 ha of vineyards in about 30 villages in the municipalities of Kvareli, Telavi and Gurjaani.

• Georgian gov’t will purchase grapes damaged by heavy hail in Kakheti wine region

To save the remaining grapes farmers decided to start the grape harvest in August, instead of in September this year.

• Early grape harvest begins in Kakheti after heavy hail damages 4,600 ha of vineyards

As of September 29, about 200,000 tonnes of grapes have been processed in Kakheti, announces the Georgian National Wine Agency.

About 20,000 farmers received 220 million GEL by selling harvested grapes, says the agency.