David Songulashvili: “The state must safeguard not only the sector, but also the part of our identity that has lived alongside us for 8,000 years.”

Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr David Songulashvili, emphasised the importance of state regulation in establishing a vineyard.

 

“Vineyard authorisation is not unique to Georgia. In countries where viticulture is highly developed, such as France, Italy, Spain, and the United States, regulations governing vineyard establishment are significantly stricter.

 

Ultimately, these rules are reflected in the quality and price of wine. If we compare the average price of a bottle of wine in France, Italy, Spain, and Georgia, we see that these prices are determined precisely by the standards that define quality. In the end, it is quality that determines the price of wine. This is an objective reality,” Mr David Songulashvili stated.

 

According to the Minister, in the case of commercial vineyards, it is quite common to see situations where, for example, Rkatsiteli vineyards are planted in the Kakheti region, yielding 30–40 tonnes per hectare, while sugar levels do not exceed 14–15 degrees. It is essential to protect individuals when they make such investments.

 

“Grapes and wine are not merely a business, a sector, or an industry—they are part of Georgia’s identity. The state must safeguard not only the sector, but also the part of our identity that has lived alongside us for 8,000 years. That is why it is crucial to ensure vineyards are established correctly,” Mr David Songulashvili stated.