How to Plan Your Wine and Brandy Tour in Areni

Areni, Armenia is a region that is famous for its wine and brandy. There are many wineries around the villages, and there is even a brandy factory in Yerevan where you can taste the legendary Armenian brandy that has been produced for decades. While in Areni, you can also visit cultural and historical sites such as Khor Virap and Noravank.

If you are planning a trip to the region, here is a guide to help you plan your wine and brandy tour:

Experience

This tour is a two-day trip that will take you to some of the best wineries and cultural sites in the region. You will get to taste a variety of wines, brandies, and even homemade vodka and apricot brandy. Besides tasting, you will also learn about wine and brandy production and the history behind them.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of the tour include:

Day 1 (6h)

Noy Brandy Company

The tour begins at Noy Brandy Company, one of the best spots in Yerevan. Here you will taste the legendary Armenian brandy and port-wine that have been produced since 1941.

Armenia Winery

The second stop is Armenia Winery, the leader of the Armenian wine market and export. You can enjoy the wine with a great view of the biblical mount Ararat and visit the wine history museum.

Nor Yedesia – Armas Wine

The last stop of the day is the village of Nor Yedesia, where you can enjoy more wine and lunch with a fantastic view before returning to Yerevan.

Day 2

Khor Virap Monastery

The first place you will visit is Khor Virap Monastery, which offers the best view of mount Ararat. Here you can learn about some history before starting the wine tasting.

Areni Wine Factory

Next, you will visit Areni Wine Factory to taste mainly grape wine but also wine made from other fruits, homemade vodka, and apricot brandy.

Noravank Monastery

Finally, you can end the tour by visiting Noravank Monastery, where you can enjoy another round of wine tasting.

Full Description

The tour starts at 10 am, and you will meet your guide and driver at your hotel in Yerevan. From there, you will be driven to each of the destinations on the itinerary.

Day 1 (6h)

On the first day of the tour, you will be visiting three destinations, starting with Noy Brandy Company. Here you will taste some of the legendary Armenian brandy and port-wine that have been produced since 1941.

The next stop is Armenia Winery, where you can enjoy different kinds of wine with a great view of the biblical mount Ararat. You can also visit the wine history museum and learn about the different stages of wine production.

The last stop of the day is the village of Nor Yedesia, where you can enjoy more wine and lunch with a fantastic view before returning to Yerevan.

Day 2 (6h)

On the second day of the tour, you will be visiting three more destinations, starting with Khor Virap Monastery. Here you can learn some history and enjoy the best view of mount Ararat.

You will then visit Areni Wine Factory, where you can taste mainly grape wine but also other kinds of wine, homemade vodka, and apricot brandy.

Finally, you can end the tour by visiting Noravank Monastery, where you can enjoy another round of wine tasting.

Booking the Tour

To book the Wine and Brandy tour in Areni, you can visit this link. The tour costs around $165 per person, which includes transportation, guide service, entrance fees to the locations, and all tastings.

Conclusion

The Wine and Brandy tour in Areni is an exciting and unique experience that you do not want to miss. You will not only be tasting different kinds of wine and brandy but also get to learn about the history and production process behind them. So, make sure to book your tour now and enjoy a fantastic trip to Areni.

An Insider’s Guide to Areni: Your Perfect Wine and Brandy Tour Destination

Are you a wine enthusiast looking to explore new, unique travel destinations? If so, Areni in Armenia is the perfect place for you. Located in the stunning Vayots Dzor Province at the foot of the Yeghegis Mountains, Areni boasts a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. It is also home to some of the world’s finest wine and brandy, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers.

Here is an insider’s guide to the hidden gems, gastronomic delights, cultural experiences, local history tales, and off-the-beaten-path activities that will make your Areni visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions

While Areni is known for its wine and brandy production, the region has much more to offer than just that. You can start your day by exploring the medieval Noravank Monastery complex, which is nestled between red rock cliffs and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Another hidden gem that you must visit is the Areni-1 cave complex, which is home to the oldest-known winery in the world, dating back to 4100 BC. The cave complex also has fascinating artifacts and relics, which provide insight into the prehistoric human civilization that once inhabited the region.

For some outdoor adventure, head to the Yeghegis River Gorge, which is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. The gorge features cascading waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Dining Spots

No trip to Areni would be complete without trying the delicious local cuisine. The region is known for its unique blend of flavors, influenced by the Persian, Arabic, and Ottoman cultures. One must-try dish is the khorovats, which is a grilled meat platter that includes lamb, pork, or beef, marinated in local herbs and spices. Other local delicacies include tolma, a stuffed grape leaf, and manti, a type of dumpling filled with seasoned lamb or beef.

For an authentic food experience, head to the Old Bridge Restaurant, which is located in the historic district of Yerevan. The restaurant is known for its traditional Armenian cuisine, including the iconic khorovats that is grilled to perfection. Another notable spot is Zangak, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s unique location, situated on a cliff with stunning views of the valley, adds to the overall ambiance and dining experience.

Cultural Experiences

Areni has a rich cultural heritage, which is showcased through its festivals, art, music, and customs. The annual Areni Wine Festival is a must-attend event for wine lovers. The festival, held every October, allows visitors to sample the region’s finest wines, enjoy live music, and participate in cultural activities.

If you are interested in art, visit the Armenian Art Museum of Yerevan, which features an impressive collection of Armenian art from ancient to modern times. Music lovers will appreciate the local folk music performances that showcase traditional Armenian instruments like the duduk and zurna. Finally, for a glimpse of local customs, visit a nearby village and try your hand at baking lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread.

Local History

Areni has a long and fascinating history dating back to prehistoric times. The Areni-1 cave complex, which is the oldest-known winery in the world, showcases the winemaking practices that were carried out thousands of years ago. The region is also known for several historical battles that took place during the Armenian-Azerbaijani War, including the Battle of Shusha, which is celebrated as a significant event in Armenian history.

Another famous historical site in Areni is the Zorats Karer megalithic site, also known as the Armenian Stonehenge. The site features ancient standing stones in a circular formation that is believed to have astronomical significance.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an experience that goes beyond the conventional, head to the Ughtasar Petroglyphs, which are located in the Vayots Dzor Province. The petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings that date back to the Bronze Age and offer insight into the daily life of the prehistoric humans who once inhabited the region.

Another unique activity is visiting the local wineries and distilleries to witness the winemaking and brandy production process firsthand. Many of these establishments offer tours, tastings, and unique experiences that will enrich your understanding of Areni’s wine and brandy production.

In conclusion, Areni has something to offer for every kind of visitor. From rich cultural experiences to hidden gems, local gastronomic delights to unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions, Areni offers something for everyone. A trip to this beautiful and historic region is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories, leaving you longing for more.