Grape harvest: 205,000 tonnes processed in Kakheti region so far

About 205,000 tonnes of grapes have been processed in Georgia’s eastern winemaking region of Kakheti as of Monday, including 81,200 tonnes of Rkatsiteli and 97,200 tonnes of Saperavi varieties, the Ministry of Agriculture said in the latest update of figures of the annual harvest.

Over 15,000 winegrowers have contributed to this year's harvest, resulting in an income of ₾287 million ($105.14mln) from grape sales.

The daily processing rate exceeds 10,000 tonnes, indicating an “active phase” in the harvest, the body added.

In total 303 wine companies and wine cellars have been involved in harvesting so far, the Ministry said.

In light of the “record-high” harvest of 300,000 tonnes projected for this year, the Government is offering subsidies to promote the sale of products by winegrowers. The initiative is expected to benefit over 20,000 farmers.