What is qvevri certification
Qvevri winemaking — fermenting and ageing wine in large clay vessels buried underground — is a UNESCO-recognised Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (2013). Georgia's National Wine Agency and the NFA provide certification for wines made using traditional qvevri methods. This certification adds significant market value, especially in premium export markets. Cepaos tracks your qvevri production to document compliance with traditional method requirements.
Prerequisites
- Qvevri vessels registered in Cellar > Vessels with type set to "Qvevri".
- Vineyard blocks with indigenous Georgian varieties (Saperavi, Rkatsiteli, Mtsvane, etc.).
- Cellar book recording all qvevri operations.
Step by step
1. Access qvevri certification module
In the sidebar, under Compliance, click Qvevri Certification. Your qvevri wines are listed with their certification status.
2. Verify production method
Cepaos checks your cellar book entries against qvevri method requirements:
| Requirement | Cepaos Verification |
|---|---|
| Fermentation in qvevri | Vessel type = Qvevri in cellar book |
| Skin contact (amber/orange wines) | Duration recorded in treatment log |
| No temperature control equipment | Vessel configuration check |
| Indigenous varieties | Variety from vineyard block |
| Whole-cluster pressing (optional) | Processing record |
Non-compliant steps are flagged.
3. Document the process
For each qvevri wine, record:
- Date grapes were placed in qvevri.
- Duration of skin contact (typically 5-6 months for amber wines).
- Date wine was removed from qvevri.
- Any racking or blending operations.
4. Attach evidence
Upload photos of the qvevri, the winemaking process, and any third-party inspection reports. These strengthen your certification application.
5. Generate certification documents
Click Generate Qvevri Certificate. Cepaos produces a document with:
- Complete production timeline in qvevri.
- Grape variety and origin.
- Vessel details and traditional method compliance.
6. Submit to the National Wine Agency
Download and submit the documentation. After certification, enter the certificate number in Cepaos.
Frequently asked questions
Is qvevri certification mandatory?
No, but it adds significant commercial value and authenticity. Many importers and sommeliers specifically seek certified qvevri wines.
Can I make both qvevri and modern wines?
Yes. Cepaos tracks each production method separately. Only wines fully produced in qvevri qualify for certification.