Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze says Georgia has a unique opportunity for its wines to attract the attention of the world’s leading auction houses, top experts and collectors. Speaking at the opening of a newly restored historic wine repository on the grounds of Wine Factory No. 1, he described each preserved bottle as a powerful tool of Georgia’s cultural diplomacy.
According to the Prime Minister, the 19th-century cellar, originally built with the support of philanthropist David Sarajishvili, has safeguarded more than 20,000 collectible bottles for over a century. Among them are rare samples aged for more than 200 years, early European-style signature wines from the 1890s, and the legendary sparkling wine crafted by Mukhranbatoni, which earned international accolades in the late 19th century.
Kobakhidze emphasized that the global value of the collection is reinforced by the presence of premium personal reserves and anniversary collections belonging to world leaders, housed alongside Georgian masterpieces. This, he noted, elevates the international significance of Georgia’s winemaking heritage.
He thanked all those involved in preserving the historic treasury and expressed hope that ongoing research of these unique wines and spirits will further strengthen Georgia’s reputation as the cradle of wine. The event was also attended by government and parliament members, with additional remarks delivered by Agriculture Minister Davit Songulashvili and Château d’Yquem President Pierre Lurton.
