Geisenheim University Students Visit the Jighaura and Tsilkani Research Bases

Students of viticulture and winemaking from Germany’s Geisenheim University paid an educational visit to the Jighaura and Tsilkani research bases of the LEPL Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture.

During the visit, the Center’s Director, Professor Levan Ujmajuridze, introduced the students to the Center’s work in viticulture and winemaking, as well as its ongoing scientific research projects. Particular attention was given to Georgia’s rich grapevine genetic heritage, the diversity of its indigenous varieties, and the importance of their conservation and study.

At the Jighaura base, the students toured the grapevine collection, research laboratories, and the Vine and Wine Museum. David Chichua, Head of the Center’s Viticulture and Winemaking Research Service, delivered a presentation on traditional Georgian winemaking and the techniques used to produce and age wine in qvevri. The students also tasted wines made from rare Georgian grape varieties.

At the Tsilkani base, the students visited the tissue culture (in vitro) laboratory, where they learned about modern plant micropropagation methods and the laboratory’s activities. They also toured the Professor Ivane Sarishvili Soil Research Laboratory, where they received information about the main areas of soil analysis and its practical applications. The visit also included a tour of greenhouses used for annual crops.

The visit took place as part of Geisenheim University’s international summer educational programme and aimed to promote the exchange of international expertise in viticulture and winemaking while enhancing the students’ practical knowledge.