“Georgia Has Qualified Vine Nurseries Capable of Producing Certified Saplings Starting This Year,” Says Levan Mekhuzla

The quality of Georgian wine and its success in international markets depend on the quality of vineyards. Regulations requiring authorization for vineyard planting are already in place in leading European wine-producing countries.

“Global competition and overproduction are intense. Therefore, we believe that the spontaneous planting of vineyards observed over the past decade should be regulated. The focus must be on the quality of the final product—wine—and on the diversity of grape varieties,” said Levan Mekhuzla, Chairman of the National Wine Agency of Georgia.

Amendments to the Law of Georgia “On Vine and Wine” introduce the concept of authorization for establishing commercial vineyards. Individuals who decide to plant vineyards for commercial purposes after May 1 of this year will be required to obtain such authorization.

“These changes are directly aimed at strengthening the wine sector. By May 1, 2026, a bylaw will be developed detailing the rules and procedures for granting authorization for commercial vineyard establishment, ensuring transparency in the process. Vine saplings must be traceable, and critical soil and climate indicators must comply with the standards defined by the bylaw; non-compliance will be grounds for refusal,” Levan Mekhuzla noted.

Under the new regulation, individuals who establish vineyards without authorization will not be allowed to sell grapes or wine commercially. The requirement applies only to those planning commercial activities and does not affect individuals planting vineyards for personal use.

Georgia already has qualified vine nurseries that, starting this year, will be able to produce certified saplings. Authorization for vineyard establishment will be issued free of charge by the National Wine Agency of Georgia.