The grape harvest is currently in full swing across Kakheti, with daily processing volumes exceeding 10,000 tonnes.
According to the Georgian Ministry of Agriculture, by September 26, a total of 133,000 tonnes of grapes had been processed in Kakheti.
“Approximately 11,000 winegrowers have delivered their grapes to local wineries. Of the grapes processed so far, up to 64,000 tonnes are Rkatsiteli, around 62,000 tonnes are Saperavi, with the remainder comprising various other varieties. There are 532 registered wine companies and cellars with the Harvest Coordination Headquarters, which are involved in the reception and processing of the harvest; 270 of these have already participated in various stages of the vintage. This year, an estimated 200,000 to 250,000 tonnes of grapes are expected to be harvested in Kakheti.
By decision of the Georgian Government, this year the state enterprise Harvest Management Company Ltd will collect surplus grapes at differentiated prices based on quality: Saperavi grapes harvested in Kakheti will be purchased at GEL 1.50 per kilogram, other wine varieties permitted under the Law of Georgia “On Vine and Wine” at GEL 1.20 per kilogram, and unfit or damaged/diseased grapes at GEL 1.00 per kilogram. Subsidies will no longer be provided to private wine companies in Kakheti,” the Ministry’s statement reads, advising to contact the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture hotline at 1501 or the Harvest Coordination Headquarters at 0322 193 283 for any information related to the vintage.