“The Wine Quality Reform Protects Both Investors and Consumers” – Levan Mekhuzla
All regulations introduced in Georgia’s wine sector are aimed at improving quality. The reform protects both investors and consumers, particularly in the current environment where global wine consumption has declined and competition in international markets has intensified, stated Levan Mekhuzla, Chairman of Georgia’s National Wine Agency.
Under amendments to the Law on Vine and Wine, effective from May 1, 2026, the establishment of commercial vineyards will only be permitted with the approval of the National Wine Agency.
According to Mekhuzla, obtaining approval is a straightforward process and applies only to growers planning to establish vineyards after May 1, 2026.
“To obtain approval, applicants must submit laboratory soil analyses. Georgia has accredited laboratories that successfully and efficiently conduct soil testing. One of the requirements is that groundwater levels must not be less than one meter below the surface, which is entirely justified, as vineyards planted in waterlogged soils produce low-quality grapes. Applicants must also provide documentation confirming ownership or legal possession of the land plot,” Levan Mekhuzla explained.
He noted that prospective vineyard owners will not face difficulties in selecting vine planting material.
“The law prohibits only the planting of hybrid grape varieties; there will be no restrictions on other varieties. Throughout the harvest season, we interact with up to 20,000 grape growers and frequently encounter cases where vineyards have been planted in river floodplains or at excessively high elevations. Such decisions are often aimed at increasing quantity rather than improving quality. Our goal is to enhance the quality of Georgian wine and strengthen its positioning in global markets,” the Chairman of the National Wine Agency stated.
Mekhuzla also noted that the Agency is authorized to deny approval for the establishment of a commercial vineyard if the applicant fails to submit the full documentation required under the regulations or if the submitted documents do not comply with the established requirements.
