Wine tours in Armenia are an exciting way to explore this ancient country, its history, culture, and culinary traditions. One of the world’s cradles of winemaking, Armenia’s special relation with wine dates back to the 5th millennium BC. According to tradition, the first vines were planted in the valley of Mt. Ararat by Noah himself. Greek historians wrote about wine and beer produced and consumed by Armenians already in the 5th century BC. And in 2007, a 6100-year-old winery was discovered in a cave near Areni village, with wine press, jars, grape seeds and even pressed grapes. Until today, locals cultivate vineyards and make wine all around the Areni area.
In Soviet times, Armenia was primarily known for its sherry wines, the production volumes of which were only second to the country’s signature drink, brandy. In recent years, the rapid growth of winemaking has placed Armenia on the map of some of the world’s best wines. In 2012, for example, the Armenian red wine Zorah Karasi, made of local Areni Noir grapes, was included in the list of the world’s top-10 wines by Bloomberg.
During our wine tours in Armenia you will learn about the history and traditions of winemaking in the country, visit famous wineries, get acquainted with the culture of homemade wines of rural Armenia, and of course, taste some of the best Armenian wines. Traditionally stored in either clay vessels or oak barrels, Armenian wines are known for their velvety texture, bright aroma and rich flavor with a touch of dried fruits. Wine tasting in Armenia is included in our group tours and individual tours, too. Depending on the time of your travel to Armenia, the wine tour may also include visits to major annual wine festivals taking place in the country – Areni Wine Festival and Yerevan Wine Days.
