WINEMAKING TRADITIONS IN THE CULTURAL DISCOURSE OF GEORGIA AND FRANCE

Abstract

Abstract. In Georgia and France, viticulture is much more than a simple agricultural activity; it is an integral part of the cultural and historical identity of both countries. The article presents a comparative study of traditional Georgian and French winemaking practices. Special attention is paid to the Georgian qvevri and the French château wine. The analysis and research of the concepts of terroir, cultural heritage and identity construction present wine as an instrument of national identity. In Georgia, the qvevri winemaking tradition, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, is part of ancient history: vines and wine occupy a central place in religious, economic and social life. In France, terroirs and large wine estates contribute to the formation of a national and social life. In France, terroirs and large wine estates contribute to the formation of a national identity based on quality, expertise and the promotion of local territories. The study also highlights differences in how wine heritage is represented. Georgia prioritizes the antiquity of wine, family tradition and rituals, while France focuses more on the hierarchy of terroirs, classifications and the international image of Grand Crus wines. Despite these differences, both countries perceive wine as a living heritage.