Climate change and prolonged droughts have put Georgia’s 2025 grape harvest at risk, especially in Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti. Local winemakers warn that the situation remains uncertain, with catastrophic droughts already damaging vineyards.
Tamaz Omanadze, founder of the family winery Khomlis Marani, told BM.GE that he cannot yet provide an accurate forecast for this year’s yield. “Traditionally, the harvest began at the end of October, but climate change has shifted the period earlier. Grapes have been affected by severe drought, and we are now waiting for rain in hopes it will revive part of the crop,” he said.
The winery, which produces only small volumes of organic, premium-quality wine, relies on grapes from a vineyard certified organic for 14 years. Omanadze also plans to plant a new 4,000-square-meter vineyard in the Usakhelauri microzone on his own land, further strengthening his commitment to quality production.
Despite the challenges, the winemaker remains optimistic. “We focus more on quality than quantity. Even if volumes are reduced, we aim to produce wine that meets our high standards,” Omanadze noted, adding that selective harvesting will continue in Lechkhumi despite climate uncertainties.
