WINE TOURISM IN SURVIVAL MODE: THE SITUATION OF FAMILY WINERIES IN BEREHOVE DISTRICT OF ZAKARPATTIA OBLAST DURING THE RUSSIAN–UKRAINIAN WAR

Abstract

The subject of this study is the examination of the current state of winemaking and wine tourism in Berehove District of Zakarpattia Oblast from the perspective of family winemakers’ activities. Wine tourism in Zakarpattya oblast is built upon centuries-old traditions in which viticulture and winemaking represent not only economic value but also cultural significance. After the collapse of the USSR, from the mid-1990s viticulture and winemaking began to develop again in Zakarpattia, which was accompanied by a boom in wine tourism. Today, wine has become an important element of the region’s tourism offer, and a steady increase can be observed both in demand for winerelated tourism services and in expectations regarding quality. The outbreak of the Russian-Ukrainian war has significantly affected the conditions of grape cultivation, the operation of wineries, and the development of wine tourism at both the national level and within Zakarpattia. At the same time, the legislative environment has also been undergoing important transformations. The geographical location of Berehove District, its distance from the areas of active hostilities, and the relatively calm conditions during the war have allowed domestic tourism to continue to exist. The aim of the study is to examine the process of the emergence of new sales trends and the behavior of service providers, as well as the current state of wine tourism in Berhove District, which operates in a survival mode under the pressure of war. The research methods included the analysis of scientific literature related to the topic, the review of legal and regulatory documents, and the analysis of statistical data. To expand the research, a questionnaire survey among winemakers in Berehove District and in-depth interviews were conducted. The results of the study may be used for the development of the wine tourism sector in Berehove District and may also contribute to the creation of strategic development programs that increase the chances of wineries surviving under the economic and political crisis caused by the war situation.