Davit Songulashvili: “No Substandard Grapes Have Been Delivered Yet”

Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Davit Songulashvili discussed the ongoing grape harvest, the importance of the new quality-focused approach, growers’ efforts to allow grapes to reach appropriate ripeness and quality, and the reasons behind the comparatively late start to this year’s harvest.

According to the minister, unlike in previous years, virtually no substandard grapes are being delivered during the current harvest, as growers are waiting for their grapes to meet the required quality standards.

“Previously, grape growers focused on selling their grapes at the state-guaranteed price, meaning that a larger harvest would generate more income. Following the changes introduced, the emphasis has shifted from quantity to quality. Quality is the foundation of better wine, which, in turn, makes Georgian wine more competitive in international markets.

“As for the current harvest, I would like to note that virtually no substandard grapes have been delivered yet. This means growers are waiting for their grapes to reach the appropriate ripeness and quality before delivering them. This approach differs from that of previous harvests,” said Davit Songulashvili.

The minister noted that this year’s harvest began comparatively late, partly because growers are waiting for grapes to reach the appropriate ripeness and partly because of climatic and environmental conditions. He added that several other agricultural crops, including berries, blueberries, and wheat, also reached maturity later than usual this year.