Story by Valentina Phillips
Photos courtesy of the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia
Imagine a land where every glass of wine tells a tale older than the pyramids. That's Armenia, one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, with a winemaking history that dates back over 6,000 years. Due to historical, political, and economic challenges, Armenian wines remained relatively unknown internationally throughout the 20th century. However, in 2007, a groundbreaking discovery propelled this small Caucasus country into the spotlight.
Discovering the World's Oldest Winery
The small village of Areni, nestled in Armenia's Vayots Dzor region, is a testament to the country's rich winemaking heritage. In 2007, archaeologists uncovered the Areni-1 cave complex, revealing a 6,100-year-old winery—the oldest known in the world. This ancient site offers a captivating glimpse into early winemaking methods, showcasing fermentation vats, grape presses, and storage jars. Today, Areni is renowned for its namesake grape, Areni Noir, a robust varietal thriving in the region's volcanic soil and high-altitude vineyards.
Another reflection of Armenia's rich cultural heritage and its profound connection to the art of winemaking is the tradition of Karas winemaking. For centuries, large clay amphoras called karas have been integral to fermenting and aging wines, lending Armenian wine its distinctive flavor. With two-thirds buried underground and one-third exposed, this method naturally regulates temperature during fermentation and aging. In the 20th century, the ancient karas method nearly faded into obscurity, but in the mid-2000s, a revival among winemakers brought it back to life. Today, as more wineries embrace the karas method, Armenia honors its traditions while exploring modern wine styles.
Armenia's Grape Diversity
Arguably shaped by its mountainous landscape and continental climate, Armenia's terroir nurtures a diverse array of distinctive grape varieties. Despite its small size and less than 3 million population, Armenia boasts approximately 400 indigenous grape varieties. Among the most prominent are Areni Noir and Voskehat.
Areni Noir or Sev Areni, widely cultivated today, is celebrated for producing some of Armenia's finest red wines. Resembling a fuller-bodied Pinot Noir, it exudes red fruit aromas, vibrant acidity, and silky tannins with dark cherry, pomegranate, and spice notes. Areni Noir thrives in the Vayots Dzor region, where high-altitude and volcanic soil impart a unique character to the wines, making them a must-try for any wine enthusiast.
Voskehat, often called the "Queen of Armenian grapes," yields aromatic white wines with floral and tropical fruit nuances. This white variety is prized for its complexity and elegance, showcasing clean, bright styles and savory textures, especially when aged in karas.
From Ancient Vineyards to Global Recognition
Lianna Abelyan, Head of the International Projects Department at the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia, emphasizes the industry's efforts to revive ancient grape varieties: "There is a concerted effort to revive and cultivate ancient, lesser-known grape varieties, preserving Armenia's vinous heritage and introducing new flavors to the market."
Abelyan suggests that Armenia's rich history and ancient winemaking traditions provide a compelling narrative for exploration, satisfying the growing interest among US consumers in unique wine experiences. She also points out the increased quality of Armenian wines in recent years: "Armenian winemakers have invested in modern technology and viticultural practices, improving the quality and consistency of their wines. This has helped elevate Armenian wines' overall standard, making them more competitive on the global market." As a result of these efforts, Armenian wines have begun to garner accolades and awards at international wine competitions, raising their profile and validating their quality to a global audience.
Armenian wineries have made significant investments in global distribution and marketing, expanding the accessibility of their wines worldwide. "Armenian wineries and wine producers have made concerted efforts to establish a presence in international markets," explains Linna Abelyan. "Improved distribution networks and strategic marketing campaigns have significantly increased the visibility and availability of Armenian wines globally."
In the US, Armenian wines are predominantly available through online retailers such as Wine.com and Total Wine. Moreover, specialty online stores like Armenian Brandy & Wine and MyWinePlus.com offer a diverse selection of Armenian wines.
Armenia Wines visit the USA!
Please mark your calendars for June 24 and 25, as the Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia and many international and domestic producers will showcase their offerings at VinExpo New York, booth D553. https://vinexpo-america.com/newfront
Exploring Armenia's Wine Regions
Traveling to Armenia's wine regions is relatively straightforward for those who want to experience Armenian wines and culture firsthand. The primary entry point is Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan. From Yerevan, visitors can rent a car, join a guided tour, or use public transportation to explore the wine regions of Vayots Dzor, home to the Areni-1 cave and the annual Areni Wine Festival; Ararat Valley, also the heart of Armenian brandy production and home to the historic Khor Virap Monastery; and Aragatsotn, recognized for its boutique wineries and experimental viticulture. While the roads to these regions can be winding and rural, the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality make the journey worthwhile.
Armenian Adventures Beyond Wine
In addition to its wine culture, Armenia offers many tourist activities and attractions. You can explore historical sites like the ancient monasteries of Geghard, Noravank, and Tatev, each set in dramatic natural surroundings. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the breathtaking Dilijan National Park, ski in Tsaghkadzor, or take a thrilling cable car ride on the Wings of Tatev, one of the world's longest.
For those interested in cultural experiences, traditional Armenian music and dance provide a rich tapestry of local heritage. In contrast, the local cuisine features delicious dishes like khorovats (barbecue), dolma, and lavash bread.
Vine and Wine Foundation of Armenia
https://vwfa.am/
