The invention relates to a method and device for the direct production of polyester granulate from a highly viscous polyester melt with a polymerisation degree of 132 to 165, as well as the granulates formed thereform. In the method, the highly viscous polyester melt is subjected to a pre-drying and drying/degassing after a hot cutting method. Hot cutting is implemented at water temperatures of 70.degree. C. to 95.degree. C. and with a liquid to solid ratio of 8 to 12:1.