Georgia is preparing to nominate its traditional ritual beer-brewing and drinking culture in the country's mountainous regions for inclusion on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Historians believe that the tradition of brewing beer came to Georgia from the East. In ancient times, beer was made from wheat, and 12 of the world's 17 known wheat varieties were cultivated in Georgia.

In the country's highland regions, beer plays an important role in traditional celebrations, including religious festivals. The drink is specially brewed for these occasions and served to all guests as part of the festivities.

Gela Samkharauli, chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture and head of the working group overseeing the initiative, said the main objective is to study ancient brewing methods in Georgia's mountainous areas, prepare the necessary documentation and submit a nomination to UNESCO to secure international recognition for the tradition.

"Preparations are underway to nominate Georgian mountain beer-making traditions for UNESCO recognition. The work covers several areas. In particular, descriptions of the traditions are being prepared, documentary materials are being collected, and relevant activities are being carried out," Samkharauli said.

Representatives of Georgia's Ministry of Culture and the National Academy of Sciences also took part in the meeting.

The initiative aims to preserve the country's traditional brewing practices and highlight their historical and cultural significance on the international stage.