As of October 21, approximately 2,400 tonnes of Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes had been processed in Georgia’s Racha region, generating GEL 19 million in revenue for nearly 1,300 winegrowers, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. A total of 35 wine-producing companies, including the state-owned Harvest Management Company, have participated in purchasing and processing the harvest.
Agriculture Minister Davit Songhulashvili said the harvest was progressing smoothly despite weather conditions delaying grape ripening this year. He noted that most of the crop had already been delivered and said the government’s priority was to ensure that all growers in Racha-Lechkhumi could sell their grapes and receive income.
To encourage private companies to participate, the government is implementing a subsidy program for grapes grown in the Khvanchkara microzone. Eligible wine producers purchasing and processing at least three tonnes of Aleksandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes and paying growers at least GEL 8 per kilogram receive a state subsidy of GEL 4 per kilogram.
Authorities are also monitoring grape quality and origin to protect the standards of Khvanchkara and Racha wines. Ampelographers inspect grapes at collection points, while checkpoints at regional entrances help prevent grapes from other municipalities from being brought in and mixed with the local varieties.
