Where were we, where are we and where are we heading - Qeti Japaridze

Get to know Qeti Japaridze. She is the head of wineries in 8000 vintage. Qeti is one of them, who has been working in company since its inception. At every stage of life, it happened that he had to choose winemaking or it turned out that he chose winemaking.

We all agree on how much influence “8000 Vintage” had on the formation of Georgian wine culture. The pace, which is still growing today, is an important motivator for the next generation. Today, as if the recent past, has turned into distant news. Where we were, where we are and where we are going – Tboba talked to Qeti Japaridze about this topic.

T: let’s start from the beginning, where was Georgian winemaking in 2015 and what significant changes did “8000 Vintage” bring?

My involvement in this field began in 2015. To tell the truth, then the situation was such that I felt an impule to tell it is not right. By far the most intense and vivid thing is that winemaking is becoming very popular and the industry is growing. At the time, it was difficult for the winemaker to reach the customer. On the other hand, Georgian bottled wine was less accessible to consumers. We have simplified this process.

For one thing, we knew that bottled wine would be every interesting for Georgians. Because it helps to talk, to share different emotions. At the same time, we took away the advantage of the dish and instead the wine became the main thing. A more cultural environment was created, which made the process of enjoying wine even more interesting.

We knew that Georgia is the homeland of wine even before they recognized us. We somehow have wine in our genes. Why should we stay away from bottled wine?! This niche was created by 8000 vintage.

T: where are we now?

Today, the Georgian wine industry has grown considerably in number. However, the same amount cannot exceed the limit as a percentage, as in the beginning. Even today, there are winemakers who wonder why we send tasting reports.

In our experience, it is healthy criticism that has greatly increased wineries, and we have had a case when, after several years of rejection, that wine is refined and improved on our shelf.

In General, when the industry develops, the first step is to increase in number and form. We are in this first step today. Although many good things are happening and many new things are developing, we are still in the beginning in terms of learning.

T: where are we going?

I think that Georgian wine stands out from the wines of other countries. Even the fact of how we characterize wine – strong wines abroad are classified as classics for us. We also have very interesting breeds that need to get used to and accepted.

We have great potential, we should use the formula of successful countries, learn a lot and research our varieties and soil. I think the young generation will definitely be able to do that. I would tell them that there are many free niches in Georgia and they should look for these niches in order to make more changes in the industry. I think it will be better for your own ambitions. I want to say that they should not be fooled by what is popular.