Alberto Laluashvili - Oenologist

Hello, I'm Alberto Laluashvili - a 24-year-old winemaker and viticulturist. I graduated from the Agricultural University of Tbilisi with a Bachelor's degree in Viticulture and Winemaking, and since October, I've been working as a winemaker at Grape Hunters in Kakheti.

T: How I Got to Where I Am

Grape Hunters has its own vineyards, planted predominantly with Saperavi and other red European varieties. Our main focus is crafting elegant Georgian red wines - and that's exactly the direction I find most exciting and meaningful.

T: Why I Chose This Profession

For me, winemaking is the natural union of viticulture and oenology - closeness to nature, creativity, and the preservation of Georgian identity, all at once. I've had memories since childhood of helping my grandfather in the vineyard, making wine together. That's probably where it all began.

Every year is different - different weather, different grapes, different decisions. And in the end, something alive is born from all of it: a wine full of emotion that brings pleasure to others. That feeling is irreplaceable.

T: My Goal

To continue the tradition of Georgian wine and introduce it to the world. I'm convinced that today, the greatest "novelty" in Georgian winemaking is Saperavi - a variety that has yet to fully reveal itself.

In the future, I would like to further develop my own small winery, which I already have – Lalua.

I want to create a wine that needs no explanation - when someone tastes it, they simply fall silent and pour themselves a second glass.

When the wine speaks for itself and you remain quiet - that means I have achieved my goal.

T: What Georgian Winemaking is Missing

Knowledge, experimentation, and innovation. Ancient traditions matter, but over-romanticizing them holds progress back. The world of wine has moved forward - and we're still largely positioned in the lower market segment. Learning from others and embracing new ideas is part of the path toward establishing Georgian wine as a premium product.

T: Advice for Those Choosing This Path

Winemaking is not a romantic hobby - it's hard work, responsibility, and constant learning. Learn from experienced people, but most importantly, understand the philosophy of wine. Understand what this field truly is. Without that philosophy, you'll remain in love with stories and traditions alone - and that's not enough.