Honey from Lechkhumi

“Honey from Lechkhumi”

In the picturesque and time-honored village of Dekhvri in Lechkhumi, resides a dynamic duo of siblings: Gvantsa and Giga Chabukianis, aged 25 and 26 respectively. Their grandfather, who once tended to a modest collection of bee families—around 4 to 5—passed down the age-old craft to them at a tender age of 6. Infused with a deep-rooted passion for beekeeping, the siblings nurtured this tradition alongside their formal education, only to return to their ancestral homeland with a fervent desire to carry forth the family legacy while embracing modern entrepreneurial principles.

From the humble beginnings of those initial 4 bee families, the Chabukianis have expanded their apiary to an impressive 100 families. Their enterprising spirit led them to establish a thriving enterprise, complete with state-of-the-art hive printing, adherence to HACCP standards, and the integration of solar technology—all while championing the burgeoning field of bee tourism. Engaging in a multitude of initiatives, ranging from local and international projects to state-sponsored programs supporting small enterprises, their endeavors have yielded remarkable results.

A pivotal decision to specialize in breeding queen bees marked a significant milestone for the siblings, distinguishing their operation from conventional beekeeping practices in the region. Recognizing the intrinsic value of the indigenous Caucasian (Georgian) bee, they now produce an average of 300-400 queen bees annually, catering to both local demand and international markets. Upholding their commitment to community welfare, Gvantsa and Giga impart their beekeeping expertise to local youth, offering free instruction and hands-on training within their apiary.

Emphasizing environmental stewardship and the production of wholesome organic goods, the Chabukianis employ innovative approaches, such as hand-embroidered caps for honey packaging and sustainable export practices. Their dedication to quality caught the attention of an Italian entrepreneur, who personally verified the integrity of their acacia honey and subsequently procured their entire stock.

While Giga delves into the realm of scientific inquiry with his mastery of food technology and thesis on the utilization of bee pollen in confectionery, the siblings remain steadfast in their pursuit of knowledge. Eager to explore apitherapy services, they have constructed and outfitted an apitherapy hut, with plans to undergo specialized training in Slovenia.

With an annual honey production averaging 2-2.5 tons, their premium honey products are available for purchase on-site and can be conveniently delivered by the Chabukianis themselves, ensuring a seamless experience for their valued customers.