Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti

Racha-Lechkhumi and Lower Svaneti represents Georgia's least populated region, mountainous terrain limiting settlement and economic development to valley bottoms. The area's isolation preserved distinctive wine varieties (Khvanchkara, Stalin's reportedly favorite wine) and cultural traditions, creating heritage assets that current infrastructure struggles to monetize.

Wine production provides the region's most recognized export, particularly the naturally semi-sweet Khvanchkara that commands prices above most Georgian wines. Climate change threatens these unique varieties, with warming temperatures affecting the conditions that create their distinctive character. Small-scale production limits volume even as reputation grows.

Tourism potential in mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and traditional villages remains largely undeveloped. Access difficulties—single winding roads through passes that winter closes—constrain visitor numbers. Whether investment in infrastructure can open Racha to tourism without destroying the isolation that preserves its character poses the central development dilemma.