Tornike Chikadze discusses company’s growth and product development plans
A Georgian wine company Rtvelisi is continuing its growth with a focus on product development and international expansion. In 2026, the company plans to expand its product range in a gradual and structured way, with priority given to premium and reserve segments, alongside new products in the spirits category, including brandy and chacha. Seven new projects are scheduled to be added to the portfolio this year. The company is also in negotiations with potential export partners and expects to enter additional markets this year. Rtvelisi was named a winner of the Golden Brand award, reflecting its market recognition and business performance.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In an interview with the co-founder and General Director of Rtvelisi, Tornike Chikadze, he discusses the company’s growth, strategy and plans for 2026.
Q. 2025 was a year of growth and expansion for Rtvelisi. What were the key drivers behind this progress?
A. The growth we achieved in 2025 was the result of well-planned and consistent efforts. Among the key drivers were a clearly defined strategy that focused both on strengthening our local market presence and diversifying exports. At the same time, we significantly expanded our distribution across Georgia and deepened cooperation with international partners.
Equally important was the professionalism of our team and our continuous focus on quality, which remains the foundation of our development.
Q. Rtvelisi is now present across all regions of Georgia. How has the brand’s positioning evolved in the domestic market over the past year?
A. Over the past year, Rtvelisi’s positioning in the domestic market has become even stronger. Today, we fully cover the entire country, with our products available in four major retail chains and a total of 15 chain stores nationwide, significantly increasing accessibility.
At the same time, our positioning has become more clearly defined – we are now firmly established as a reliable, quality-driven brand offering consumers a diverse portfolio.
Q. The opening of a wine shop and bar at Sheraton Metechi Palace hotel was an important step. What results has this project delivered and how do you see the development of the HoReCa direction?
A. The opening of our wine shop and bar at Sheraton Metechi Palace marked an important milestone. It allows us to offer customers a direct and distinctive brand experience.
This space also carries a strong image and prestige value. Beyond our production facility, it has become a key location for meetings and negotiations with partners, where, with the support of a brand sommelier, they can explore our full portfolio and easily select products tailored to their needs.
Q. In 2025, the company added new export markets, including Japan and Turkey. Which market has proven the most promising and why?
A. Each new market we entered in 2025 played an important role in our export diversification strategy. However, the Asian direction stands out in particular.
Japan is characterized by high demand for quality and unique products, which aligns perfectly with our positioning. Consumers there place great importance on both quality and brand heritage, giving Georgian wine an additional advantage.
At the same time, Turkey is an attractive market due to its scale and logistical proximity, allowing us to operate efficiently and gradually expand our presence.
Q. Export diversification is a key part of your strategy. How do you select new markets and evaluate their potential?
A. Export diversification is a strategic priority for us and the selection of new markets is based on detailed analysis.
We assess demand and consumer behavior, specifically, the level of interest in high-quality and distinctive wines. Market size, growth potential and the competitive environment are also key factors.
Equally important is the presence of a reliable and strong local partner, as they play a crucial role in positioning the brand correctly in each market.
Our goal is not rapid expansion, but stable, long-term growth in carefully selected countries.
Q. The company operates a modern winery in the village of Shalauri, in eastern Georgia. How does this technological infrastructure support consistent quality?
A. Our modern winery in Shalauri allows us to fully control every stage of production – from grape intake to the final product.
The facility includes diverse production capabilities: a traditional cellar for qvevri [an egg-shaped earthenware vessel used for making, ageing and storing the wine] wines, as well as a dedicated lower level where wines are aged in French oak barrels.
This infrastructure enables us to produce wines in various styles while maintaining consistently high quality standards.
Q. Qvevri wine is an important part of your portfolio. How is demand evolving internationally?
A. Qvevri wine is one of the standout products in our portfolio, reflecting the unique identity and deep-rooted traditions of Georgian winemaking. For us, it is especially important to bring an 8,000-year-old continuous winemaking tradition to global consumers in a modern, high-quality form.
Demand for this category is growing steadily, as consumers increasingly seek authentic and unique wines. The strongest interest is observed in European and Asian markets, particularly in countries with a strong focus on culture and quality.
Q. Founded during the pandemic in 2020, Rtvelisi has grown rapidly. What was the most challenging stage in this journey?
A. Starting a business during the pandemic was a significant challenge, mainly due to uncertainty and an unstable environment. However, the most important decision we made was to move forward rather than give up. Today, we clearly see the results of that determination in the progress and development Rtvelisi has achieved.
Q. Is demand growing for spirits such as brandy and chacha and do you plan to expand in this direction?
A. We see growing interest in brandy and chacha, especially in the premium segment, which is why we are dedicating significant resources and attention to it. We are currently developing several new products that will be introduced to the market in the near future.
Q. Rtvelisi was named a Golden Brand winner. What does this recognition mean for you?
A. Winning the Golden Brand award is an important recognition that confirms the work and results Rtvelisi has achieved in a relatively short time. Such recognition enhances the brand’s credibility with both local and international partners and plays a significant role in strengthening its overall image.
Q. You have announced plans to expand your product range in 2026. What are the priority areas?
A. In 2026, we plan to expand our product range gradually and strategically. Our priority is the further development of the premium and reserve segments. At the same time, we are actively working on new products in the spirits category, including brandy and chacha.
We have already launched seven new projects that will be added to our portfolio this year.
At the same time, we are in negotiations with several potential export countries and we expect Rtvelisi to enter additional new markets in 2026.
