“The Practice of Granting Authorization for Vineyard Planting Is in Force in All EU Wine-Producing Countries” – Levan Mekhuzla

“Wine producers are well aware of how important the quality of vine seedlings, planting exposure, soil composition, and grape varieties are for producing high-quality wine.

When establishing commercial vineyards, everything must comply with standards that ensure the production of high-quality grapes and, consequently, high-quality wine. If an entrepreneur takes all these factors into account, there will be no obstacle to obtaining planting authorization. Against the backdrop of declining global wine consumption and high market competition, this is the only way to ensure the production of top-quality products,” stated Levan Mekhuzla, Chairman of the National Wine Agency.

The Parliament of Georgia has already approved, in its first reading, amendments to the Law on Vine and Wine. According to the amendments, the law will introduce a provision defining the concept of authorization for vineyard planting. This is described as a document issued by the LEPL National Wine Agency that grants a physical and/or legal person the right to establish a commercial vineyard. The purpose of the amendments is to support the production of high-quality, competitive grape-based alcoholic beverages and to ensure compliance with the requirements of local and international markets for their sale.

According to Levan Mekhuzla, the practice of granting authorization for vineyard planting is already established and operational in all European Union wine-producing countries.

The National Wine Agency will issue vineyard planting authorizations free of charge.

The requirement to obtain authorization will apply only to those planning commercial activities and will not apply to individuals establishing vineyards for personal use.