Annual vintage coordination centre opens in Telavi amidst promising grape harvest

The coordination centre for the annual grape vintage was opened on Tuesday in Georgia’s eastern city of Telavi, with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture forecasting a harvest of approximately 300,000 tons for this year.

Attending the opening of the centre, Minister Otar Shamugia announced a 20 percent increase in grape production over the past seven months compared to the previous year.

The Government has consistently prioritised viticulture and winemaking, resulting in significant investments and notable growth in both vineyard areas and wine exports. This year's 20 percent increase builds on last year's record-breaking exports, with anticipated grower income reaching approximately ₾350 million [$129 million]”, Shamugia said and highlighted the Government's decision to subsidise the harvest and ensure its organised conduct. 

  The official also addressed wine-producing companies, stressing the need for high-quality grapes, which he said were essential for producing competitive domestic wine. "Quality grapes are crucial for wine quality and competitiveness, which in turn impacts pricing and export figures", he noted.

In a bid to support the winemaking industry and facilitate grape sales, the Georgian Government has introduced repeated vintage subsidies. Over 20,000 winegrowers will benefit from the subsidies, and nearly 500 companies will be involved to purchase and process grapes.

Companies that process at least 100 tons of Rkatsiteli grapes from Kakheti region in the country’s east will receive a state subsidy and pay at least ₾1 per kilogram of grapes, with a ₾0.20 per kg subsidy provided to companies in the region.