Gift Shop

Overview

Nestled within the historic walls of the Yerevan Brandy Company, the Gift Shop offers visitors a tangible piece of Armenia's rich heritage. More than just a retail space, it serves as the final destination for a journey through the country's celebrated brandy-making traditions. Here, travelers can explore and acquire the iconic ARARAT brandy, renowned worldwide for its quality and historical significance. The shop presents a curated selection of brandies, from everyday enjoyment to rare, aged reserves, reflecting the artistry and dedication ingrained in every bottle produced by this esteemed institution.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Armenian brandy, and by extension the Yerevan Brandy Company, dates back to 1887 when merchant Nerses Tairyan established the first distillery in Yerevan. This marked the beginning of a legacy deeply intertwined with Armenian culture and identity. The company's brandies gained international acclaim early on, most notably at the 1900 Paris exhibition, where they were awarded the Grand Prix and, exceptionally, the right to be labeled as 'cognac', a term typically reserved for French products. The very name 'ARARAT' itself evokes Mount Ararat, a powerful national symbol for Armenians, linking the brandy to the biblical tale of Noah's Ark and the ancient roots of winemaking in the region. This profound connection to the land and its history imbues each bottle with a narrative extending far beyond its exquisite taste.

What Makes It Special

What sets the Yerevan Brandy Company's Gift Shop apart is its direct link to the source of ARARAT brandy's exceptional character. The brandies offered are crafted exclusively from indigenous Armenian grapes, flourishing in the fertile Ararat Valley. These are then distilled and aged in centuries-old Caucasian oak casks, assembled by hand within the factory's own workshops. This meticulous process, combined with the use of pure spring water, contributes to the brandy's distinctive flavor profile, marked by notes of sun-drenched fruits, nuts, caramel, and subtle spices. The shop showcases the full spectrum of ARARAT brandies, from younger, vibrant expressions to highly sought-after aged varieties that can be decades old, including limited editions like ARARAT Single Cask and special blends such as the ARARAT Charles Aznavour Signature Blend.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most enduring stories associated with ARARAT brandy involves British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Legend has it that Joseph Stalin introduced Churchill to Armenian brandy at the Yalta Conference in 1945, and the Prime Minister was so impressed that he arranged for several cases of 'Dvin' brandy to be sent to him annually. Churchill reportedly attributed his longevity partly to 'Cuban cigars, Armenian brandy, and no sport.' This anecdote highlights the brandy's international appeal and its role in significant historical moments. The shop's consultants are often ready to share such tales, enriching the shopping experience. Visitors might also learn about the unique microclimate of the Ararat valley, which provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation, or the specific characteristics that distinguish Armenian brandy from its French counterparts, such as its softer edge and more floral and herbaceous notes.

Visitor Perspective

For many travelers, a visit to the Yerevan Brandy Company culminates in the Gift Shop, offering a chance to bring home a piece of their Armenian experience. After touring the aging cellars and partaking in a tasting session, visitors can purchase the very brandies they've learned about and sampled, making the choice a personal and informed one. The shop provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the range of ARARAT products, guided by knowledgeable staff who can help select the perfect bottle, whether for a connoisseur's collection or a memorable gift. An added personal touch is the option to have a purchased bottle hand-lettered, transforming it into an even more unique souvenir. Beyond the famed brandy, the shop sometimes offers accompanying items like specially designed glasses, enhancing the enjoyment of the spirit and serving as elegant mementos of a visit to this iconic Armenian establishment.