Tsotne Japaridze, founder of natural wine producer Wine of Freedom, says Georgia must diversify wine exports and reduce its dependence on Russia, which accounts for around 64% of Georgian wine exports.
Based in Khidistavi, Gori Municipality, Wine of Freedom produces up to 3,000 bottles of natural still and sparkling wine annually, primarily for the domestic market. The company plans to expand into export markets.
“Entering the Russian market may bring quick money, but not everything is about money. You should not sell products to a country that occupies your territories,” Japaridze said in an interview with BMGTV.
He noted that Georgian wine sells for around $2 per bottle in Russia, while natural wine prices in Europe start at approximately €10. He urged producers to diversify markets to reduce the risks of another Russian embargo.
