Bolnisi Designation of Origin Wine Festival Highlights Georgia’s Winemaking Heritage

The National Wine Agency, in coordination with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, is implementing the state program for promoting Georgian wine production in the local market for the second consecutive year. As part of the program, wine exhibitions, competitions, and festivals are held throughout the country to boost wine tourism and foster a culture of wine consumption.

The “Bolnisi Designation of Origin Wine Festival” was held for the third time, featuring around 60 wineries from across Georgia—including large, small, medium-sized, and family-owned producers.

The festival was attended by the Chairman of the National Wine Agency, Levan Mekhuzla, and Deputy Chairman, Zurab Vacharadze.

“Diversifying and promoting Georgian wine markets remains our top priority. The Bolnisi Festival is especially significant because it exclusively features wines with a designation of origin, while still promoting Georgian wine more broadly. Currently, 32 designations of origin are registered in Georgia, which reflects the richness and uniqueness of our grape varieties and winemaking traditions. We are pleased that the Bolnisi Festival has become a tradition, with growing participation and attendance each year,” said Levan Mekhuzla.

A designation of origin wine competition was held during the festival in accordance with the standards of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). An international jury awarded wines with Grand Gold, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals.

The festival welcomed wine importers, experts, bloggers, and tourism professionals from various European countries.

The “Bolnisi Designation of Origin Wine Festival” is organized by the company Aremji and supported by the National Wine Agency, the Winemakers’ Union “Gvino Bolnisi,” Bolnisi Municipality City Hall, Sakpatenti, and Bolnisi Agrocenter.