Aging Cellars

Overview

Deep within the historic Yerevan Brandy Company in Yerevan, Armenia, lies the revered 'Aging Cellars' – a sanctum where time, tradition, and expert craftsmanship converge to transform distilled spirits into the legendary ARARAT brandy. This sub-spot within the larger complex is not merely a storage facility; it is the beating heart of Armenian brandy production, where rows of oak barrels silently guard precious liquid, maturing it to perfection. Visiting these cellars offers a unique glimpse into the intricate aging process that gives ARARAT brandy its distinctive character, a process steeped in centuries of winemaking heritage in the Ararat Valley.

The Yerevan Brandy Company, established in 1887, stands as a monumental symbol of Armenia's rich cultural and industrial legacy. The Aging Cellars are an integral part of the ARARAT Museum, welcoming curious travelers to explore the alchemy behind one of the nation's most celebrated exports. Here, the air is thick with the sweet, intoxicating aroma of aging brandy, inviting visitors into a sensory journey through Armenian history and craftsmanship.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Armenian brandy began in 1887 when merchant Nerses Tairyan established the first brandy factory in Yerevan. Inspired by French distillation techniques, Tairyan, with his cousin Vasily Tairov, introduced Charentais alembic stills and constructed specialized aging cellars, laying the foundation for what would become the Yerevan Brandy Company.

In 1899, the enterprise was acquired by the Russian company Shustov and Sons, which significantly expanded operations and brought international recognition. Under their ownership, in 1900, an Armenian brandy developed by master blender Mkrtich Musinyants, 'Fine Champagne Otborny', received a Grand Prix at the Paris Exposition, earning it the right to be called 'cognac'.

Following the Soviet era and subsequent nationalization, the Yerevan Brandy Company continued to evolve. In 1953, a new, architecturally distinctive factory building overlooking the Hrazdan River was completed, which remains its home today. In 1998, the company became part of Pernod Ricard, a French multinational beverage group, ensuring its continued modernization while preserving traditional methods. Armenia itself boasts an ancient winemaking history, with evidence dating back over 6,000 years, often linked to the legend of Noah planting the first vines at the foot of Mount Ararat. This deep-rooted viticulture forms the cultural bedrock for Armenia's esteemed brandy production.

What Makes It Special

The Aging Cellars at Yerevan Brandy Company are distinguished by their use of unique Armenian (Caucasian) oak barrels. These barrels are not mere storage vessels; they are active participants in the brandy's maturation, imparting specific characteristics due to the oak's porosity and chemical composition. The brandy, made from indigenous white grape varietals grown in the Ararat Valley, undergoes a double distillation process before being carefully transferred to these special casks.

Within the dimly lit cellars, thousands of barrels house brandies of varying ages, from younger spirits to rare, long-aged collections that have matured for decades, some even up to 70 years. This slow, patient aging process allows the brandy to develop its complex aromas, rich colors, and smooth, distinct taste. The sheer scale and historical depth of these cellars underscore the dedication to quality that has defined ARARAT brandy for over a century.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Aging Cellars hold many captivating stories. One of the most famous anecdotes involves Winston Churchill, the former British Prime Minister, who was reportedly a great admirer of ARARAT 'Dvin' brandy. Legend has it that Joseph Stalin sent Churchill cases of 'Dvin' annually after the Yalta Conference in 1945.

Another poignant tradition within the cellars is the 'Peace Barrel'. In 2001, a special barrel was set aside to age, intended to be opened only when the Karabakh conflict is resolved. This barrel symbolizes hope and peace, a powerful testament to the brandy's cultural significance beyond its taste. Furthermore, many barrels within the cellars are dedicated to notable VIP guests and world leaders who have visited, commemorating their presence and connection to this Armenian treasure.

The meticulous process includes selecting specific grape varietals like Voskehat, Garan Dmak, Mskhali, and Kangun from the sun-drenched Ararat plain and other regions. The longevity of the brandy is often playfully estimated by observing how long it clings to the side of a glass after swirling – with one second often equating to one year of aging.

Visitor Perspective

A tour of the Yerevan Brandy Company's Aging Cellars, part of the ARARAT Museum experience, is an immersive journey. Visitors descend into the cool, atmospheric depths where the air is thick with the scent of maturing brandy. Expert guides lead guests through the historical chambers, explaining the distillation, aging, and blending techniques that define ARARAT.

The experience is highly educational, shedding light on the craftsmanship and passion involved in producing this world-renowned spirit. The tours often culminate in a tasting session, allowing guests to sample various ages and blends of ARARAT brandy, such as 'Akhtamar', 'Nairi', or 'Vaspurakan'. This tasting provides a tangible appreciation for the nuances developed over years in Caucasian oak barrels, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding and a lasting impression of Armenia's liquid gold.