In October 2024, the cost of preparing one standard Imeretian khachapuri reached 6.62 GEL, reflecting a 2% increase from September 2024 and an 8% rise compared to October 2023.
Telavi recorded the most significant monthly increase, with the Khachapuri Index rising by 6.6%. Specifically, in October, the Khachapuri Index in Telavi stood at 7.17 GEL, 8.4% higher than the national average. This substantial increase is tied to Kakheti’s distinct autumn season, especially during the grape harvest, or Rtveli, which kicks off in late August and spans several weeks. The Rtveli celebrations lead to a shift in tourism patterns, drawing visitors from the Black Sea coast to Telavi and surrounding areas. This seasonal influx of tourists raises local demand, contributing to notable fluctuations in prices.
On an annual basis, prices for nearly all ingredients rose, except for eggs, which declined by 1.5%. Yeast saw the largest annual price increase at 21.8%, followed by butter at 16.4%, milk at 13.2%, cheese at 8.6%, and flour at 4.6%. Most of these ingredients also experienced monthly price increases, except for milk, which decreased by 1.9%.
Looking ahead, ongoing seasonal reductions in milk supply are anticipated to drive further price increases for cheese and milk—the primary ingredients in khachapuri—in the coming months.