Deko Turkadze

To appreciate the profession

My name is Deko Turkadze, this year I am completing the bachelor’s program in viticulture and winemaking at the Agrarian University and I intend to continue my studies at the master’s program in enology and viticulture at the Technical University of Georgia.

How I got to where I am today?

I always thought that success is very easy if you get in the right place (according to your interests) and do not be lazy to work. I try to gain experience in all directions and gather as much knowledge as possible. I am currently working in 8000 vintage and this experience helps me a lot in my professional growth along with my studies and I want to mention here that I am very grateful and happy to be part of their team.

Why I chose this profession:

I have always liked such a field, which was related to the development of Agricultural sciences. Winemaking and viticulture were the most attractive among them due to its 8000 years of history. Relationship with wine was no stranger to me (every year in the family wine was made and this “process” seemed very fun to me). I first became interested in wine technology during a trip to Greece when I visited a winery. All this played a big role in choosing a profession. Along with that, I especially like the profession of sommelier since childhood, probably because it was foreign to me and I found it more valuable. I am still of the same opinion, the more I delve into this profession, the more it interests me (from the vineyard, to wine technology, and finally to serving wine and pairing it with food).

My goal is:

My goal is to gain knowledge in countries where wine-growing is better developed and use this knowledge in Georgia. I always wanted to start realizing my knowledge in my own vineyard, and I started growing a vineyard with my brother, which brings me great happiness, although I still have a lot to learn.

What motivates me to do what I do?

Working with wine and in vineyard has always been associated with happiness for me. It is nice to work in an environment where you feel comfortable. Often this profession, even the work that is done in the vineyard, seems to me to be very fun with the people who support me and help me. The main motivation in this work is that I love what I do, I am satisfied and happy with it.

What is missing in Georgian winemaking industry?

In my opinion, Georgian winemaking lacks more opportunities for people of my age (although not only), who are interested in this direction. Our wine industry lacks the development support that would lead to more involvement and interest among young people.

Advice to those who choose this profession now:

The main advice from me would be to not turn down any opportunity, whether you are goung to be a wine technologist, viticulturist, etc. everything is so interconnected, it is very important to have information. Knowledge of languages is desirable and I think, necessary. In this profession you need to love work.