My story with wine began long before I became a winemaker — sparked by curiosity and the scent of grapes and earth that surrounded my childhood in Georgia, the birthplace of wine. By the time I graduated my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Enology from the Agricultural University of Georgia (2004–2006), I knew this was more than a career — it was a lifelong calling.
That path took me across Europe: to Cranfield University in the UK to study Microbiology, Hohenheim University in Germany for Winemaking, where I discovered the precision of science, the patience of fermentation, and the story waiting to be told in every glass.
Since 2006, I have been part of Khareba Winery, the largest wine group in Georgia, growing from a young specialist to chief winemaker and leading international projects that share the story of Georgian wine with the world. Along the way, I graduated an MBA in Wine Marketing & Sales from INSEEC in France and continue my journey always learning, always inspired.
As a winemaker from Georgia, I take pride in sharing my country's ancient winemaking heritage with the world — both through my wines and my role as an international wine judge. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of evaluating wines at some of the most prestigious competitions worldwide.
Today, with over 20 years of experience, I view winemaking as both a science and an art — a dialogue between nature and tradition, brought to life in every bottle.
For me, winemaking is not only about preserving Georgia's ancient traditions — it is also about reimagining them for today. Every bottle I create is born from respect for heritage, but also from curiosity, creativity, and the courage to explore beyond boundaries. My philosophy is simple: wine must tell a story. A story of the land, of the grape, of the people who shape it — and of the future we are building together. Featured below are projects and wines that reflect the essence of my winemaking philosophy — where tradition meets forward-thinking creation.
Winemaking has always been a deeply personal journey for me. From my first walk through Georgia's vineyards, I knew that every grape, every fermentation, and every bottle carried a story — one I wanted to share with those who truly appreciate wine.
What matters most is how our wines are experienced — by winemakers, judges, and wine lovers around the world. Their recognition has been my greatest inspiration, driving us to aim higher and create with even more passion.
Together with my incredible team, we have earned over 500 international awards since 2006 — from Mundus Vini's "Best of Show Georgia," to Double Gold at the CWSA, Grand Gold at CINVE, and Gold Medals at the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles. Our wines have also received top honors in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and at Decanter, where they have won multiple Golds.
Renowned wine critics and competitions have further recognized our work: Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW awarded 91 points, The Global Wine Masters (Drinks Business) honored us with Gold, Wein+Markt rated our wines at 93.5 points, Wine Enthusiast gave 90 points, and Richard Hemming MW highlighted our wines with high praise on JancisRobinson.com.
Each award is more than a medal — it is a story of patience, precision, and pride. Every bottle we create is a piece of Georgia's heart, captured in glass and shared with the world.
Over the past two decades, I have been fortunate to collaborate with an inspiring circle of international professionals — true masters of their craft who have shaped not only wines but also my own journey as a winemaker. Each of them has brought unique knowledge, creativity, and vision, enriching Georgian winemaking and strengthening it's place on the world map.
A globally renowned British wine critic, author, and consultant, Robert has shaped the international wine conversation for over four decades. As the founding editor of Wine International and co-founder of the London International Wine Challenge, he has judged competitions across five continents and authored more than 25 books on wine. I am proud to work with Robert on the K'AVSHIRI Wine Project, where together we have created extraordinary, first-of-its-kind multi-vintage assemblages from Georgian grapes. His sharp insight, strategic vision, and unmatched experience make every collaboration inspiring and transformative.
Doctor of Enology and trained under the legendary Denis Dubourdieu, Herve brings over 30 years of winemaking experience across both hemispheres. Since 2010, our collaboration has blended precision, science, and sensitivity, driving meaningful advancements in viticulture and winemaking in Georgia. Fifteen years ago, together we launched Lipartine Wines, and to this day, we continue to develop this project, creating wines that reflect both tradition and innovation.
A sparkling wine artist raised on the Riesling slopes of the Mosel, Ingo has been my trusted collaborator since 2008. From traditional riddling in Lösnich to experimenting with Qvevri in Georgia, he brings both old-world depth and fearless innovation. Working with Ingo is always a sparkling exchange of ideas and friendship. Together, we created Georgia's most prestigious and high-end sparkling wine, a true expression of craftsmanship and creativity.
As a Georgian winemaker, I am proud to represent the world's oldest winemaking tradition on the global stage — as an international wine judge.
Over the years, I've had the honor of evaluating wines at the world's most respected competitions, including:
Each challenge brings a unique perspective — diverse styles, techniques, and philosophies — deepening my understanding of what makes a wine truly exceptional. These experiences shape how I craft wines: with precision, authenticity, and a constant drive for innovation.
Judging internationally is not only about assessing quality — it's about sharing Georgian wine culture, connecting with global experts, and always learning something new.
As an Georgian Enologist, I have the privilege of sharing my country's ancient wine heritage with audiences around the world. Each year, I lead educational masterclasses at INSEEC Wine & Spirits Institute and KEDGE Business School in Bordeaux, introducing students and professionals to the 8,000-year-old tradition of Qvevri winemaking and the remarkable diversity of Georgia's grape varieties and terroirs.
My work also brings me to Napa Valley College, where I present Georgian wines in one of the world's most renowned wine regions — bridging centuries-old traditions with contemporary perspectives. In Georgia, I am invited as a host speaker to engage with international wine professionals, guiding hands-on masterclasses and tastings that connect history, culture, and innovation.
Wherever I speak, I carry the living spirit of Georgian winemaking — a story continually unfolding, one glass at a time.
