The Story of Baia’s Wine: A Journey of Family, Tradition, and Innovation
In the heart of Georgia, nestled in the picturesque village of Obcha, Baia Abuladze and her younger siblings, Gvantsa and Giorgi, grew up immersed in the rich traditions of winemaking. Their family, rooted in a culture that cherishes the art of viticulture, cultivated not just grapes but a profound respect for the land and its heritage. Childhood for the Abuladze siblings was marked by days spent observing their parents and grandparents engage in every aspect of winemaking—a craft passed down through generations.
A Startup Success and the Birth of Baia’s Wine
In 2015, the Abuladze family took a leap of faith by participating in a local agricultural startup competition. Their dedication and vision paid off when they won a grant of GEL 5,000 (around $2,000 USD at the time). This funding enabled them to purchase a second-hand wine bottling machine, a pivotal step toward improving both production capacity and quality. It was during this transformative period that Baia officially launched her family’s wine label, aptly named Baia’s Wine, bringing a fresh identity to their centuries-old craft.
A Unique Approach to Winemaking
Baia’s Wine is produced on seven acres of pristine land, where indigenous Georgian grape varieties are cultivated without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. The family adheres to traditional methods of winemaking, with the juice fermenting in qvevris—large clay vessels buried underground. This ancient technique not only preserves the authenticity of Georgian winemaking but also enhances the natural flavors of the wine.
Obcha: A Microclimate Perfect for Grapes
The village of Obcha boasts a unique microclimate that is ideal for grape cultivation. Located on the eastern slopes of the Sairme Mountains, the area benefits from a slightly higher solar intensity due to its elevated position and favorable sunlight angles. At an altitude of 324 meters, the land provides exceptional conditions for growing premium grape varieties.
The Wines of Baia
Baia’s Wine showcases the rich diversity of Georgian viticulture with a lineup that includes two white wines made from Tsolikouri and Tstiska grapes, as well as a red crafted from Otskhanuri Sapere. Among the collection, the Krakhuna blend stands out as a true masterpiece. This wine undergoes a 15-day maceration process with grape skins, a traditional method that imbues it with depth, complexity, and a distinctive character.
A Legacy in the Making
Baia Abuladze’s journey is a testament to the power of blending tradition with innovation. From a small village in Georgia to the international stage, Baia’s Wine is not just a brand but a celebration of heritage, family, and the enduring spirit of Georgian winemaking. With each bottle, Baia invites wine lovers to experience the story of Obcha, where nature, tradition, and passion come together to create something truly extraordinary.