The country of Georgia has a deep and ancient association with wine that dates back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. The practice of fermenting grape juice into wine in large clay vessels called qvevri (ქვევრი) is a tradition that has been preserved for centuries. The qvevri winemaking method, where grape skins, seeds, and stems are fermented together in large, buried clay vessels, is designated as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

Wine holds significant cultural importance in Georgia and is deeply integrated into social and religious customs. For Georgians, drinking wine is not just mere consumption; it symbolizes national identity, pride, hospitality, tradition, and connection to nature and land. No matter the celebration, wine is there for everybody’s happiness and pleasure.

This picture of wine culture in Georgia shows us that we will face some hard moments related to relationships due to our principles and different perspectives on wine. On the other hand, we will have the opportunity to testify of God’s will for our bodies according to 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.”

As Seventh-day Adventists, we have a health message to preach, showing the love of our God. Georgians are thirsty for this message. They will listen to it only if people are willing to go or send others. Are you willing to send us and be our partner in this mission?

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