Georgian wine is one of the most important symbols of our identity. It was on this land, 8000 years ago, that the great and uninterrupted tradition of winemaking began - a tradition that has profoundly shaped the identity and culture of our country, stated Prime Minister of Georgia during his speech at the conference.

According to the Head of Government of Georgia, wine is an inseparable part of Georgian traditions and hospitality, while over 525 endemic grape varieties of the country represent a unique treasure that places Georgia among the world's leading wine-producing nations.

“From the very beginning, the vine became a national value that has defined our identity for millennia. In 2017, the global scientific community officially recognized Georgia as the cradle of wine civilization. In 2013, the traditional Georgian qvevri winemaking method was granted the status of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, confirming the uniqueness of this method.

With over 525 endemic grape varieties, Georgia holds a leading place in the world. Today, our winemaking sector is a strong and modern industry. Over the past decade, as a result of our targeted efforts, the geography of exports has doubled and Georgian wine is now present in the markets of 70 countries worldwide. The scale is impressive: in 2025, nearly 90 million liters of wine were exported, with a total value reaching 268 million USD. This positive dynamic continues in 2026 as well”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.

As he added, as a result of state policy, the number of producers has increased almost thirtyfold, with nearly 3000 registered wineries and companies operating in Georgia today.

“This strengthens our regions and creates new jobs. Growth has been particularly visible among small and family-owned wineries, which, thanks to state support and market diversification, have been able to export their products. Ensuring continuous quality improvement and accessing new markets remain state priorities. Our goal is for the world to recognize Georgian wine as a premium-class product that carries forward an 8000-year-old tradition through constant development. I believe that, through the joint efforts of the state, grape growers and winemakers, the Georgian vine will continue to serve as our country’s hallmark and a guarantee of economic strength and international recognition”, - noted the Prime Minister.

At the conference, held under the theme Georgian Wine on the Global Market - Opportunities and Challenges, speeches were also delivered by President of Georgia Mikheil Kavelashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture David Songhulashvili and Director General of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine John Barker.

The event was attended by Metropolitan David of Alaverdi, members of the Government and Parliament of Georgia, along with other invited guests.