With support from Georgia’s National Wine Agency and the organization of U.S.-based marketing firm Colangelo & Partners, a group of American wine professionals, including Master Sommeliers, recently toured Georgia to experience its winemaking traditions firsthand.

The delegation was led by Paul Yanon, Vice President of Colangelo & Partners, and included top-tier sommeliers with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants and the U.S. HoReCa sector. Notably, the title of Master Sommelier—held by only 279 individuals worldwide—is among the most prestigious in the global wine industry.

During their visit, the group toured wineries in Kakheti, Georgia’s renowned wine region, where they observed both traditional qvevri methods and modern winemaking techniques, and tasted a variety of locally produced wines. They also attended a Georgian wine master class and tasting in Tbilisi.

“Traveling to Georgia is very impressive, as is the idea of returning to Georgian traditions—to discover and revive almost extinct grape varieties and share this heritage with the world," said Paul Yanon. "When wines are made with the same quality as we saw in Georgia, it's clear they can be successfully exported, including to the United States. People just need to hear the stories behind them to appreciate their unique aromas and character.”

The United States is considered a strategic export market for Georgian wine. Since 2022, Colangelo & Partners has led an active marketing campaign in the U.S., in collaboration with the National Wine Agency, to raise awareness and increase Georgian wine’s presence.

Bringing American wine experts to Georgia is a key part of this campaign, aimed at fostering deeper understanding of the country's winemaking heritage, unique grape varieties, and cultural context—ultimately helping position Georgian wine more prominently on the international stage.