Georgian Vineyard to Be Planted at Historic Leville Estate in Cultural Heritage Initiative
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the Georgian National Museum, the Agricultural Research Center of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, and Chateau Zegaani LLC to plant a Georgian vineyard on the grounds of the Leville Estate and support initiatives aimed at promoting Georgian wine culture.
The memorandum was signed by David Lortkipanidze, Director General of the Georgian National Museum; Levan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Agricultural Research Center; and Liana Zubashvili, Director of Chateau Zegaani LLC.
The signing ceremony was attended by Tinatin Rukhadze, Minister of Culture of Georgia; David Songulashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture; Maka Gurgenidze, First Deputy Minister of Culture; and Giorgi Mirtskhulava, Deputy Minister.
Minister Songulashvili emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the project:
“Growing Georgian vines at the Leville Estate is not only a restoration of heritage, but a revival of our history—an 8,000-year continuous tradition of winemaking and culture. This project unites Georgian land, wine, and a unique story of emigration that connects generations. The memorandum we sign today is a clear example of how the state, private sector, and scientific community can collaborate to implement national projects and continue history with dignity. It is symbolic that one of the oldest Georgian grape varieties will be planted here.”
The initiative builds on a notarial deed signed on September 23, 2016, which outlines the preservation and development of the Leville Estate park, including the planting of Georgian tree and fruit varieties and the establishment of a vineyard on part of the land.
As part of the agreement, Chateau Zegaani LLC will undertake the planting and maintenance of the vineyard at its own expense and responsibility. The Agricultural Research Center will provide methodological support and consultation to Chateau Zegaani and the National Museum, in line with its areas of expertise.
