Samegrelo is one of the oldest centers of winemaking in Georgia. The first mentions from ancient sources refer to Colchis wine, which is confirmed by archaeological materials. Megrelian wine has characteristic, tasteful properties and aromas. Due to different climatic zones and soil characteristics, two types of vine cultivation are common in Samegrelo: lowland and highland (vine is mainly planted on trees or pergolas). More than 40 unique vine varieties are known in Samegrelo. Restoration and popularization of Megrelian vine varieties is underway today in Samegrelo. Unique Megrelian vine varieties include Khardani, Ojaleshi, (the same Shonuri), Koloshi, Machkvaturi, Chvitiluri, Paneshi, Chechipeshi and others.

Famous historians and scolars have written about the quality and distinct features of Megrelian wine. In the mid-17^th century, the French traveler Jean Chardin believed that Megrelian wine was the best around Asia. The Consul of France to Tbilisi, Jean-Francois Gamba, described Megrelian wine as the best whendescribing his trip to Georgia in 1820s. Swiss historian Frederic DuBois de Montperreux believed that the best wine was produced on the southern slopes of the Caucasus, located in Samegrelo.