The International Qvevri Day was celebrated for the first time in Georgia.
Within the framework of the state program for promoting Georgian wine products on the local market, wine exhibitions, competitions, and festivals are held throughout Georgia. These events play an important role in enhancing the potential of wine tourism and fostering the development of wine consumer culture. The program has been implemented for the second consecutive year by the National Wine Agency in coordination with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia.
Within the framework of this program, Qvevri Day was celebrated in Georgia, organized by the Georgian Sommelier Association with the support of the National Wine Agency.
The celebration of Qvevri Day carries special significance for Georgia, as wine made in qvevri is a unique product. In 2013, the traditional Georgian method of qvevri wine-making was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting the distinctiveness of this ancient technique. The promotion of qvevri wine on both international and local markets is a priority for the National Wine Agency. As a result of the marketing activities carried out, the international awareness of qvevri wine has been increasing year by year.
As part of the International Qvevri Day celebrations, the International Qvevri Conference was held, along with the presentation of the qvevri wine glass designed by the world-renowned Austrian wine accessories brand, RIEDEL. The event also featured a ceremony awarding the title of Honorary Sommelier, as well as ceremonial qvevri openings at wineries across various regions of Georgia. Going forward, International Qvevri Day will be celebrated annually during the last week of April.
It is noteworthy that in 2024, within the framework of the state program for promoting Georgian wine products on the local market, the co-financing amount totaled 1,559,284 GEL. Georgian wine was presented at 54 events across the country, including 17 exhibitions and festivals, and 15 tasting and presentation events. Additionally, various competitions and symposiums were held.