Mari Gelashvili

My name is Mari Gelashvili. I graduated from the faculty of Viticulture and Winemaking of the Agrarian University of Georgia, then I entered the Caucasus international University for a master’s degree in the field of Georgian winemaking and viticulture. I am currently a sommelier/manager one of the wineries.

How I got to where I am today?

At the age of 18, I did not really know exactly what profession I wanted to choose, I think I am still in the process of searching and that is what I like – my profession allows me to maneuver, you can be in one field and at the same time have diversity, you can be a vintner, winemaker, sommelier or be in sales in short many things spread out.

Why I chose this profession:

It is important for me to enjoy what I do and for the process to be varied, lively and creative. My profession is the union of all these things for me.

My goal is:

To tell the truth, I do not have a specific goal, the main thing for meis to enjoy the process, create a meaningful product, and of course, develop myself professionally.

What motivates me to do what I do?

Different things give me motivation at different stages of life, it can be myself, friends, financial situation and others.

What is missing in Georgian winemaking industry?

In my opinion, Georgian winemaking lacks diversity and a new vision, what we have is good and welcome, but innovations are necessary, of course, if we want to establish ourselves in the international market.

Advice to those who choose this profession now:

My advice would be at the initial stage, before you choose this field to spend some time in the vineyard or in the enterprise, talk to people who are directly involved in the process, because you will get the best recommendations from them <3.