Samtskhe-Javakheti, a region of Georgia once renowned for its flourishing viticulture, continues to carry the rich legacy of vine cultivation and the distinctive flavors of Meskhetian cuisine. The unique taste of local aboriginal grapevine varieties and traditional dishes reflects centuries-old agricultural wisdom. Today, they play a vital role in preserving the region’s cultural identity and intangible heritage. Through ongoing efforts to revive these grape varieties and promote the conservation of agrobiodiversity, Samtskhe-Javakheti stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of its traditions.
As part of a broader initiative to safeguard traditional knowledge and support the sustainable use of local genetic resources, over 14,400 green vegetatively propagated grafted grapevine seedlings – featuring endemic Meskhetian varieties and grown with closed root systems – were distributed to 70 farmers across the municipalities of Akhaltsikhe, Aspindza, and Adigeni. These efforts build upon the distribution of 6,700 barerooted seedlings in April 2025. Combined, the initiatives have led to the revitalization of more than 20 hectares of agricultural land now dedicated to the restoration of local viticulture.
The project’s vine nursery, located in Mukhrani village in Mtskheta municipality, serves as a conservation and propagation center for rare Meskhetian grape varieties. It functions not only as a site for seedling production, but as a knowledge-sharing hub where farmers receive hands-on training in vineyard layout, planting techniques, and sustainable maintenance.
The success of this initiative goes far beyond numbers – it touches lives, traditions, and the future of rural communities.
“Providing free planting material and knowledge to farmers is a great privilege for our region. We are not accustomed to frequent innovations, so such initiatives are truly welcomed – especially when it comes to the revival and restoration of our traditional winemaking.” – Ms. Dariko Dzirkvadze, farmer from the village of Rustavi, Aspindza municipality.
“I always dreamed of having a small vineyard. People looked at me with skepticism and said, ‘How can you, as a woman, manage a vineyard and produce wine?’ But this project made that dream come true and gave me the courage to pursue even greater goals. What makes it even more meaningful is that it’s not just about receiving high-quality planting material, but also about sharing knowledge and experience – something I deeply value.” – Ms. Luchia Chitashvili, young female farmer from Vale, Akhaltsikhe municipality.
This project is also a platform for gender inclusion, helping to empower women farmers and challenge traditional gender norms in rural Georgia. Through technical assistance and equal access to resources, women are gaining visibility as winemakers, agricultural entrepreneurs, and custodians of heritage.
At the heart of the initiative is the restoration of grape varieties once thought to be disappearing: Meskhuri Mtsvane, Shavi Aspindzura, Tamaris Vazi, Khatistvala, Meskhuri Sapere, Tskhenis Dzuzu Tetri and Shavi, Tskhenis Dzua, Saparula, and Samariobo. These native varieties are now returning to their ancestral soils – planted once again in the terraced landscapes of the Lesser Caucasus.
In many areas, the initiative has grown into a wider movement to rehabilitate historic terraced vineyards, restore ancient irrigation systems, and rebuild traditional family-owned wine cellars. These actions support not only the conservation of plant genetic resources but also the economic sustainability of rural communities.
Additionally, this revival of traditional grape cultivation contributes to climate resilience, as many Meskhetian varieties are naturally adapted to the region’s harsh winters, sloped terrains, and diverse microclimates. Promoting their use means promoting long-term ecological balance and food system adaptability.
The initiative is implemented under a GEF-funded project led by REC Caucasus, in partnership with national and local stakeholders, agricultural experts, and local communities. It complements broader strategies for sustainable land use, agroecology, and the integration of agrotourism and gastrocultural experiences.