Armenia
Armenia has a long history of winemaking, with a focus on indigenous grape varietals and traditional production methods.
Regional History & Terroir: Armenia has a rich winemaking history dating back over 6,000 years, making it one of the oldest wine regions in the world. The country has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, and is situated at an elevation of over 1000 meters above sea level. The terroir is characterized by volcanic soils, which give the wine a distinctive minerality.
Typical Grape Varietals: Armenia is known for its indigenous grape varietals, which are well-suited to the local climate and terroir. Some of the most commonly used grape varietals include Areni, Voskehat, and Kangun. Areni is a red grape varietal that is used to produce full-bodied, tannic wines with flavors of red fruit and spice. Voskehat and Kangun are white grape varietals that produce wines with floral aromas, crisp acidity, and flavors of citrus and stone fruit.
Regional Wine Styles: Armenian wines are typically made using traditional production methods, such as fermenting the grapes in clay vessels called qvevri. This gives the wines a unique flavor profile and texture. Red wines from Armenia are known for their full-bodied, tannic character, while white wines are crisp and refreshing. Armenian wines pair well with a variety of foods, including grilled meats, stews, and roasted vegetables.
