“Vineyard Establishment Must Be Regulated to Ensure High-Quality Georgian Wine,” Says Zurab Vacharadze

“Rules and procedures for granting authorization for vineyard establishment, which will ensure full transparency of the process, will be developed in the form of a bylaw by May 1, 2026. The aim of the new regulation is to ensure the quality of Georgian wine and, in the long term, support winegrowers and the private wine industry,” said Zurab Vacharadz​e, Deputy 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.

According to the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, global wine consumption is currently at its lowest level since 1961.

“In the context of intense competition and overproduction, vineyard establishment must be subject to regulation. The focus must be on the quality of both raw materials and the final product. From soil, exposure, and location to grape variety and rootstock—everything must meet standards that will enable us to produce high-quality harvests for the best wines,” Zurab Vacharadze noted.

Authorization for vineyard establishment will be issued free of charge by the National Wine Agency of Georgia. The requirement applies only to those planning commercial activities and does not affect individuals planting vineyards for personal use.