200 Years of Winemaking Finesse

Type: Red, Dry

Grape: Sev Areni (Areni Noir) 

Region: Vayotz Dzor

ABV: 14%

Origin and terroir: Selected vineyards of Aghavnadzor village, Vayots Dzor region. The harvest is done in late October, when the grapes reach their full phenolic maturity. Altitudes of 1300-1400 m a.s.l. Average age of vines – 60 years. Soil – lime and volcanic, with average rock content, shallow humus horizons. 

Yield: stainless steel Barrel 

Ageing: Around 6-12 months. During the first 4-6 months it is being aged in new, later in 1-3 year old, 225 l capacity barrels made of Armenian (Artsakh) oak wood. 

Testing Notes:

Appearance:

Typically medium to deep ruby-red in color.

Young wines may exhibit purple hues, while aged versions develop garnet tones.

Aroma:

Fruity: Red cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry, and blackcurrant.

Floral: Hints of violet or wildflowers, adding elegance to the bouquet.

Spicy/Earthy: Black pepper, dried herbs, and subtle earthy or smoky notes.

Palate:

Acidity: Medium to high, offering a refreshing and vibrant character.

Tannins: Fine-grained, moderate tannins that provide structure without overpowering.

Body: Light to medium-bodied, with a smooth texture.

Flavor Profile:

Bright red fruits like cherry, red currant, and plum.

Hints of black tea, dried herbs, or pepper.

Subtle mineral and earthy undertones due to volcanic soils.

Finish:

Clean, with a long-lasting fruity and spicy aftertaste.

Occasionally marked by a touch of smokiness or minerality.

Ageability:

Young Areni wines are fresh and fruity.

Aged versions develop complex tertiary notes of dried fruits, leather, tobacco, and savory elements, becoming more refined and nuanced.

Best Pairings for Areni Grape Wine

Areni wines are versatile, thanks to their balanced acidity, medium body, and fine tannins. They pair well with a variety of dishes that highlight the wine’s fruity, floral, and spicy characteristics.

Meat Dishes

Grilled Lamb or Beef Kebabs: The wine's bright acidity and subtle tannins cut through the richness of the meat.

Roast Duck or Game: Complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Barbecue: The smoky, charred flavors pair beautifully with Areni's earthy and spicy notes.

Poultry

Herb-Roasted Chicken: Highlights the wine's floral and red fruit tones.

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: A harmonious match with the wine’s cherry and cranberry notes.

Vegetarian Dishes

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Especially eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini, which pair well with Areni’s earthy undertones.

Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement the wine’s minerality.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Enhances the wine's acidity and fruity character.

Cheese

Semi-Hard Cheeses: Manchego, Gouda, or Asiago bring out the wine’s fruity and floral elements.

Aged Cheeses: Pair with Parmesan or aged Cheddar for a contrast of sharpness with the wine’s smoothness.

Armenian Cuisine

Khorovats (Armenian Barbecue): A traditional pairing, highlighting both the wine and the dish's smoky flavors.

Tolma (Stuffed Grape Leaves): Complements the herbal and savory flavors of the dish.

Lahmajun (Armenian Flatbread with Meat Topping): A lighter pairing that matches Areni’s vibrant acidity.

Spicy Dishes

Mediterranean or Middle Eastern Spices: Dishes with cumin, coriander, or paprika work well with the wine’s spice notes.

Curry (Mild to Medium): Balances the spices without overwhelming the palate.

Light Desserts

Dark Chocolate with Cherry Filling: Mirrors the wine’s cherry and plum flavors.

Berry Tart: Enhances the fruity profile of the wine.

Areni’s versatility makes it a perfect choice for pairing with a range of foods, especially dishes that reflect Armenia’s culinary heritage and earthy, smoky flavors.

Type: Dry, White 

Grapes: Voskehat 70% & Khatoun Kharji 30%  

Region:  Vayots Dzor

ABV: 13.5%

Tasting Notes:

Voskehat, often referred to as the "queen of Armenian grapes," produces elegant white wines known for their vibrant acidity, medium body, and complex flavor profile featuring notes of orchard fruits (like pear and apple), citrus, floral hints, and sometimes a touch of nuttiness or minerality. These characteristics make Voskehat wines versatile for pairing with a wide range of foods

Pairing:

Voskehat wines versatility is great for pairing with a wide range of foods.

Seafood

Grilled or Roasted Fish: Lightly seasoned trout, sea bass, or sole align with the wine’s citrusy and mineral notes.

Shellfish: Lobster, shrimp, and scallops, especially with buttery or citrus sauces, complement Voskehat’s refreshing acidity.

Smoked Fish: Salmon or mackerel pairs beautifully with the wine’s complexity.

Poultry

Herb-Roasted Chicken: The wine’s floral and fruity notes enhance herb-seasoned chicken dishes.

Turkey Breast: With light gravies or citrus-based sauces.

Vegetarian Dishes

Mediterranean Salads: Salads with olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese bring out the wine’s crispness.

Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus emphasize the wine’s earthy and mineral undertones.

Risotto: Lemon or herb-based risottos pair well with the wine’s acidity.

Cheese

Soft Cheeses: Fresh goat cheese or Brie highlights Voskehat’s fruity and floral qualities.

Feta or Halloumi: Their salty tang contrasts delightfully with the wine.

Spicy or Exotic Cuisine

Middle Eastern Dishes: Hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh pair wonderfully with the wine’s fresh profile.

Lightly Spiced Asian Cuisine: Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, or dishes with lemongrass and ginger.

Light Meat Dishes

Pork Loin: With an apricot or apple glaze to echo the wine’s fruit notes.

Duck Breast: Served with citrus-based sauces to complement the wine’s acidity.

Desserts

Citrus-Based Desserts: Lemon tarts or orange-flavored cakes align with the wine’s zesty finish.

Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples, pears, or stone fruits like peaches highlight the wine’s orchard fruit flavors.

Voskehat wines shine with dishes that balance their bright acidity and aromatic complexity, making them an excellent companion for fresh, light, and subtly spiced foods.

Type: Dry, Red

Grape: Sev Areni

Region: Vayots Dzor

ABV: 13.5%

 Testing Notes:

Appearance:

Typically medium to deep ruby-red in color.

Young wines may exhibit purple hues, while aged versions develop garnet tones.

Aroma:

Fruity: Red cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry, and blackcurrant.

Floral: Hints of violet or wildflowers, adding elegance to the bouquet.

Spicy/Earthy: Black pepper, dried herbs, and subtle earthy or smoky notes.

Palate:

Acidity: Medium to high, offering a refreshing and vibrant character.

Tannins: Fine-grained, moderate tannins that provide structure without overpowering.

Body: Light to medium-bodied, with a smooth texture.

Flavor Profile:

Bright red fruits like cherry, red currant, and plum.

Hints of black tea, dried herbs, or pepper.

Subtle mineral and earthy undertones due to volcanic soils.

Finish:

Clean, with a long-lasting fruity and spicy aftertaste.

Occasionally marked by a touch of smokiness or minerality.

Ageability:

Young Areni wines are fresh and fruity.

Aged versions develop complex tertiary notes of dried fruits, leather, tobacco, and savory elements, becoming more refined and nuanced.

Best Pairings for Areni Grape Wine

Areni wines are versatile, thanks to their balanced acidity, medium body, and fine tannins. They pair well with a variety of dishes that highlight the wine’s fruity, floral, and spicy characteristics.

Meat Dishes

Grilled Lamb or Beef Kebabs: The wine's bright acidity and subtle tannins cut through the richness of the meat.

Roast Duck or Game: Complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Barbecue: The smoky, charred flavors pair beautifully with Areni's earthy and spicy notes.

Poultry

Herb-Roasted Chicken: Highlights the wine's floral and red fruit tones.

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: A harmonious match with the wine’s cherry and cranberry notes.

Vegetarian Dishes

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Especially eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini, which pair well with Areni’s earthy undertones.

Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement the wine’s minerality.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Enhances the wine's acidity and fruity character.

Cheese

Semi-Hard Cheeses: Manchego, Gouda, or Asiago bring out the wine’s fruity and floral elements.

Aged Cheeses: Pair with Parmesan or aged Cheddar for a contrast of sharpness with the wine’s smoothness.

Armenian Cuisine

Khorovats (Armenian Barbecue): A traditional pairing, highlighting both the wine and the dish's smoky flavors.

Tolma (Stuffed Grape Leaves): Complements the herbal and savory flavors of the dish.

Lahmajun (Armenian Flatbread with Meat Topping): A lighter pairing that matches Areni’s vibrant acidity.

Spicy Dishes

Mediterranean or Middle Eastern Spices: Dishes with cumin, coriander, or paprika work well with the wine’s spice notes.

Curry (Mild to Medium): Balances the spices without overwhelming the palate.

Light Desserts

Dark Chocolate with Cherry Filling: Mirrors the wine’s cherry and plum flavors.

Berry Tart: Enhances the fruity profile of the wine.

Areni’s versatility makes it a perfect choice for pairing with a range of foods, especially dishes that reflect Armenia’s culinary heritage and earthy, smoky flavors.

Type: White, Dry

Grape Varieties / Sorts:  Khatun Kharji, Kangun, Aligote

Region: Vayotz Dzor

ABV: 13.5%

Tasting Notes:

Aroma:

Fruity notes like green apple, citrus, and pear.

Floral aromas such as acacia or white flowers.

Subtle herbal and mineral nuances.

Palate:

Crisp acidity with a balanced mouthfeel.

Flavors of citrus, green apple, and tropical hints like pineapple or melon.

Mineral undertones, reflecting Armenia's volcanic soils.

Body: Light to medium-bodied, offering a refreshing profile.

Finish: Clean and vibrant, with a lingering citrus and floral aftertaste.

Food Pairing

Light seafood dishes like grilled fish or shrimp.

Fresh salads with citrus-based dressings.

Mild cheeses, particularly soft or semi-hard varieties.

Armenian dishes like lentil soup or grilled vegetable platters.

Unique Qualities

Khatun Kharji is celebrated for its historical roots and adaptability to Armenia’s unique terroir.

Wines from this grape offer a sense of place, showcasing the balance between fruitiness and minerality that reflects the volcanic and continental influences of Armenian vineyards.

Type: Red Dry  

Grape: Sev Areni

Region: Vayots Dzor

ABV: 16%

The word “zarm” means continuation of the family and the wine has Maran family tree embossed on the label. This limited quantity red dry wine is made only on special years, from selected Aghavnadzor vineyard plot, 1400 m a.s.l. Grapes are harvested in late autumn, before the first snow when they can no longer be kept on the vines and noble rot has set in with some clusters.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance:

Typically medium to deep ruby-red in color.

Young wines may exhibit purple hues, while aged versions develop garnet tones.

Aroma:

Fruity: Red cherry, cranberry, pomegranate, raspberry, and blackcurrant.

Floral: Hints of violet or wildflowers, adding elegance to the bouquet.

Spicy/Earthy: Black pepper, dried herbs, and subtle earthy or smoky notes.

Palate:

Acidity: Medium to high, offering a refreshing and vibrant character.

Tannins: Fine-grained, moderate tannins that provide structure without overpowering.

Body: Light to medium-bodied, with a smooth texture.

Flavor Profile:

Bright red fruits like cherry, red currant, and plum.

Hints of black tea, dried herbs, or pepper.

Subtle mineral and earthy undertones due to volcanic soils.

Finish:

Clean, with a long-lasting fruity and spicy aftertaste.

Occasionally marked by a touch of smokiness or minerality.

Ageability:

Young Areni wines are fresh and fruity.

Aged versions develop complex tertiary notes of dried fruits, leather, tobacco, and savory elements, becoming more refined and nuanced.

Best Pairings for Areni Grape Wine

Areni wines are versatile, thanks to their balanced acidity, medium body, and fine tannins. They pair well with a variety of dishes that highlight the wine’s fruity, floral, and spicy characteristics.

1. Meat Dishes

Grilled Lamb or Beef Kebabs: The wine's bright acidity and subtle tannins cut through the richness of the meat.

Roast Duck or Game: Complements the savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Barbecue: The smoky, charred flavors pair beautifully with Areni's earthy and spicy notes.

2. Poultry

Herb-Roasted Chicken: Highlights the wine's floral and red fruit tones.

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce: A harmonious match with the wine’s cherry and cranberry notes.

3. Vegetarian Dishes

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Especially eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini, which pair well with Areni’s earthy undertones.

Mushroom Risotto: The earthy flavors of mushrooms complement the wine’s minerality.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Enhances the wine's acidity and fruity character.

4. Cheese

Semi-Hard Cheeses: Manchego, Gouda, or Asiago bring out the wine’s fruity and floral elements.

Aged Cheeses: Pair with Parmesan or aged Cheddar for a contrast of sharpness with the wine’s smoothness.

5. Armenian Cuisine

Khorovats (Armenian Barbecue): A traditional pairing, highlighting both the wine and the dish's smoky flavors.

Tolma (Stuffed Grape Leaves): Complements the herbal and savory flavors of the dish.

Lahmajun (Armenian Flatbread with Meat Topping): A lighter pairing that matches Areni’s vibrant acidity.

6. Spicy Dishes

Mediterranean or Middle Eastern Spices: Dishes with cumin, coriander, or paprika work well with the wine’s spice notes.

Curry (Mild to Medium): Balances the spices without overwhelming the palate.

7. Light Desserts

Dark Chocolate with Cherry Filling: Mirrors the wine’s cherry and plum flavors.

Berry Tart: Enhances the fruity profile of the wine.

Areni’s versatility makes it a perfect choice for pairing with a range of foods, especially dishes that reflect Armenia’s culinary heritage and earthy, smoky flavors.