Sparkling Wine: Global Trends and Georgia’s Perspective

The global sparkling wine market is steadily growing, driven by several factors. One of the key reasons is the transformation in consumption habits – whereas sparkling wine was once mainly associated with special occasions, today, consumers increasingly choose it for everyday enjoyment. In Europe and North America, dry and light sparkling wines, such as Prosecco and Crémant, have become highly popular due to their affordability compared to Champagne. In fast-growing Asian markets, younger consumers are leaning toward innovative and diverse sparkling wines. In Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland and the Baltic countries, sales of this category are also increasing steadily. Georgia is following this trend and is working to establish its place in the global sparkling wine market.

Georgian producers have been actively working on exporting sparkling wine in recent years. Although exports declined in 2024, reaching $4.4 million (source: Geostat), in the long run, Georgia’s sparkling wine exports have been growing slowly but steadily. The primary export destinations remain Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, largely due to traditional trade relationships. These markets continue to show strong demand for Georgian wine, but diversification remains a key challenge.

Another significant trend is the rising import of sparkling wine into Georgia. In 2024, imports reached $3.56 million, marking a sharp increase compared to the previous year (27%). The majority of imported sparkling wines in Georgia come from France and Italy, two global leaders in the industry. France is renowned for its classic Champagne, which is considered a premium product, while Italy dominates with Prosecco, known for its affordability and diverse flavor profiles. Georgian consumers are increasingly drawn to these international options, reflecting broader global trends.

While Georgia’s sparkling wine market is still in a developing phase, its exports are gradually strengthening, and the rising import numbers indicate growing consumer interest in this category. To establish a stronger position in the international market, Georgian producers must ensure consistent quality, adhere to global standards, and enhance marketing efforts.