Racha is preparing for the 2026 grape harvest, which is expected to begin around October 12–15, several days later than usual due to heavy rainfall in spring and summer, according to Zuka Maisashvili, General Director of wine company Gvinuka.
Maisashvili said excessive rain affected grape development and sugar content. He noted that several consecutive sunny days would be needed for Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes to accumulate more sugar.
Unlike last year’s record harvest of more than 3,000 tons across Racha, this year’s crop is expected to be 10–15% lower, Maisashvili said.
The existing subsidy model will remain in place in Racha this year. Wine companies must pay growers at least GEL 8 per kilogram, while the state will provide a GEL 4 subsidy for each kilogram of Alexandrouli and Mujuretuli grapes processed.
