The Kvemo Kartli Wine Forum was held at the archaeological site of Gadachrili Gora in Marneuli Municipality, bringing together representatives of central and local government, the wine sector, professional and educational institutions, local producers, and international organisations.
The Forum aimed to showcase the potential of Kvemo Kartli’s wine sector, strengthen the region’s wine identity, promote its tourism potential, and foster cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Gadachrili Gora was selected as the venue for its unique historical significance. The archaeological site is associated with an 8,000-year history of wine and wheat production. Against this backdrop, the Forum focused on connecting the region’s historical heritage with contemporary economic opportunities and exploring how its winemaking traditions, local production, cultural heritage, and tourism potential can contribute to local economic development.
“Kvemo Kartli has all the prerequisites to become one of Georgia’s distinctive tourism destinations. Our historical sites, diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, ethnic and religious diversity, traditional agriculture, wine, and hospitality create strong opportunities to make the region even more attractive to both domestic and international visitors,” said Ilia Jalaghania, State Representative in Kvemo Kartli.
Local winemakers presented their products and shared their experience during the Forum. Particular attention was given to the distinctive identity of Kvemo Kartli wine and to opportunities that can help producers access new markets, reach new consumers, and establish new business partnerships.
“Kvemo Kartli has outstanding potential in viticulture and winemaking and is home to high-quality wine producers. It is important for us to strengthen the shared identity of the region’s wine sector, improve its visibility, and connect local producers with new markets,” said Nato Altunashvili, Director of the Kvemo Kartli Wine Union.
The event also presented the first vocational education programme in viticulture and winemaking developed for Kvemo Kartli. The programme aims to strengthen the knowledge and practical skills required by the sector and support the development of a qualified workforce.
“As a Swiss funded local economic development programme, we are pleased to support this Wine Forum showcasing the history of wine production in Kvemo Kartli, and its potential contribution to regional tourism. Importantly, the event is a good example of inter-agency cooperation and private sector collaboration – both of which are crucial to ensure the full potential of both wine and tourism sector assets are realized. Coordinated public and private planning and investment in economic growth and competitiveness is essential to sustain local incomes and deliver more and better jobs for communities across Kvemo Kartli.,” said Roger Oakeley, Team Leader of the Local Economic Development Project (LEDP).
The Forum concluded with a tasting of wines produced by Kvemo Kartli winemakers. The tasting provided participants with an opportunity to discover the diversity of the region’s wines, while enabling producers to connect with potential partners and buyers.
The Kvemo Kartli Wine Forum was held with the support of the Local Economic Development Project (LEDP), in cooperation with the Administration of the State Representative in Kvemo Kartli, Marneuli Municipality, the National Agency for Cultural Heritage Preservation of Georgia, and the Georgian National Museum.
The Local Economic Development Project (LEDP) is implemented by HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation with funding from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
