I’m Iva Chalelishvili. I completed my undergraduate studies in viticulture and enology at the Agricultural University of Georgia, and now I'm pursuing a master’s degree in enology and vineyard management at Bordeaux Sciences Agro in the Bordeaux region, France.
T: How did I get to where I am?
In my final year as an undergraduate, I produced wine using traditional Georgian methods, which was successfully sold in Georgian wine shops and bars. After graduation, I decided to do an internship in France, and in the fall of 2022, I completed my first international internship in two different chateaux in the Bordeaux region.
During my time in Bordeaux, I decided to gain experience in the Southern Hemisphere as well, so in the winter of 2023, I traveled to New Zealand, where I worked at a winery in the Marlborough region. Later, I worked as an assistant winemaker in the Douro region of Portugal and the Victoria region of Australia. While in Portugal, I realized I wanted to deepen my knowledge, so I applied to the master's program where I am currently studying.
Every wine region has its own unique characteristics. I wanted to gather a diverse range of practical and theoretical knowledge and to work with winemakers with different approaches and perspectives.
T: Why did I choose this profession?
My family has always had vineyards and a small cellar, where I made wine with my grandfather each year using traditional Kakhetian methods. My love for wine and grapes is deeply rooted in these family traditions.
T: What motivates me to pursue this career?
One of my main motivations is the 8,000-year history of Georgian wine and its rich traditions. I strive to gain as much practical and theoretical knowledge as possible and to meet others involved in the wine industry. I aim to use this knowledge, together with other young Georgian winemakers, to make Georgian wine competitive on the world wine map.
T: Advice for those choosing this profession now?
Understand your motivation and goals in choosing this career and consider what path you want to take for your development.
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