The death of Malkhaz Kharbedia—the head of the "Wine Club," writer, and winemaker — is an irreparable loss for Georgian culture. As time goes by, we will not only miss him but also come to fully appreciate the work he did to revive Georgian viticulture and winemaking, as well as to nurture the development of Georgian literature.

Vinoge.com — a blog about wine and taste that also features an online forum—together with the newspaper "Marani," the magazine "Madiani," the wine club, the New Wine Festival, the Sparkling Wine Festival, the Wine Village, the Festival "Small Cellars on the Big Stage," and the Georgian Wine Guide, represents just an incomplete list of the remarkable initiatives and projects that Malkhaz Kharbedia both initiated and actively supported. We will remember these efforts — and Makho’s invaluable contributions — many times over, whenever history calls upon us to personify those who played pivotal roles in shaping modern Georgian wine culture.

Founded on the initiative of Malkhaz Kharbedia — with pioneers of natural wine production playing key roles in its foundation — the Wine Club paved the way for countless wine-growing and winemaking enthusiasts. At the new wine festival organized by the Wine Club, these enthusiasts first introduced their creations to the public.

For the winegrowers and winemakers among the wineries that are members of the Natiral Wine Association, Makho’s contributions are unforgettable. His steadfast support, participation in Wine Club festivals, direct engagement with wine connoisseurs, comprehensive reports published on vinoge.com, and meticulously crafted wine descriptions — all of which he dedicated substantial time and energy to — have left an indelible mark on Georgian viticulture.

It is also important to note that Malkhaz Kharbedia laid the foundation for Georgian wine writing and journalism as distinct disciplines. It is remarkable that in a nation known as the traditional homeland of vines and wine, wine journalism has never before been so prominent or systematically organized. Thousands of publications — including magazine articles, newspaper pieces, and web content edited by Malkhaz Kharbedia—along with his personal letters, blogs, and wine descriptions (which eventually converged on the website he created, vinoge.com) continue to captivate readers with great interest.

The Natural Wine Association extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends, and the countless people who mourn his loss. We will always remember Malkhaz Kharbedia as an ever-present guiding spirit — his contributions live on and will remain with us for generations to come.

Goodbye, Makho!