The government is tightening regulations on wine production, introducing mandatory tasting and paid labeling, with expected annual revenue increases of up to ₾15 million for the National Wine Agency.
Amendments to the Law ‘On Vine and Wine,’ prepared by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, have already been submitted to Parliament.
Under the draft law, all categories of wine will undergo mandatory organoleptic testing for both export and the local market. Around 5,000 batches intended for domestic sale will be tested, with each lot costing ₾75 — totaling approximately ₾375,000.
A paid labeling system will also be introduced, set at 10 tetri per bottle, and fully implemented from February 1, 2027. Based on annual sales of 140–150 million bottles, authorities expect labeling fees alone to generate ₾14–15 million.
The reforms will also tighten rules for small producers. The threshold for ‘small cellar’ status will be reduced from 40,000 liters to 25,000 liters annually. Companies exceeding the new limit will lose preferential conditions and face additional certification and testing costs.
Around 50 wine producers are expected to be directly affected by the change, while approximately 550 small cellars will remain exempt under the new threshold.
The bill introduces new definitions, including “labeling of alcoholic beverages” and “organic grapes,” while adding a “natural wine” category and abolishing the term “home wine.”
Officials say the changes will increase costs for producers due to mandatory testing, certification, and labeling. However, they note that higher revenues for the agency will also boost transfers to the state budget, as 10% of income exceeding ₾1 million must be paid to the state.
The government has until November 1, 2026 to approve labeling rules, with full implementation of the system set for early 2027.
