Historic Barrels

Overview

Deep within the revered Yerevan Brandy Company in Yerevan, Armenia, lies a captivating treasure known as the 'Historic Barrels' section. This is not merely a storage facility, but a living museum where the legendary ARARAT brandy slowly matures, absorbing the rich essence of Caucasian oak. Visitors step into cool, dimly lit cellars, greeted by the intoxicating aroma of aging spirits, a scent often referred to as the 'angel's share'. Here, rows upon rows of silent wooden giants, some dating back decades, stand testament to a craft perfected over more than a century. It is a place where history, tradition, and artistry converge to create one of Armenia's most cherished national symbols.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Armenian brandy began in 1887 when merchant Nerses Tairyan established a distillery in Yerevan. Inspired by his cousin, Vasily Tairov, he introduced French distillation technology, setting the foundation for what would become the renowned Yerevan Brandy Company. The enterprise gained international recognition under Nikolay Shustov, who purchased it in 1900 and famously had Armenian brandy mistakenly awarded the Grand Prix at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, granting it the right to be called 'cognac'. Following nationalization during the Soviet era, the company continued to thrive, with master blender Markar Sedrakyan creating many of the iconic blends still enjoyed today. In 1998, the Yerevan Brandy Company became part of the international Pernod Ricard group, ensuring its global reach and continued modernization. The tradition of aging in special barrels, handcrafted from tight-grained Caucasian oak, is deeply ingrained in Armenian winemaking history, reflecting the unique terroir and artisanal skill passed down through generations.

What Makes It Special

The Historic Barrels at the Yerevan Brandy Company are special not only for their sheer quantity – thousands line the aging cellars – but also for the profound role they play in shaping ARARAT brandy's distinctive character. The brandy matures in barrels made from indigenous Caucasian oak, which contributes unique notes of walnut, vanilla, cocoa, clove, and an earthy sweetness. This slow aging process, influenced by Yerevan's climate and the specific properties of the oak, imparts the brandy with its exceptional smoothness and rich aroma. The cellars themselves maintain a consistent temperature and humidity, crucial for optimal maturation, creating an almost sacred atmosphere. Beyond the science, the emotional connection to these barrels is palpable, representing decades of patience, expertise, and a commitment to preserving a heritage. Each barrel holds not just spirit, but also the spirit of Armenian tradition.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The Peace Barrel: One of the most poignant barrels is the 'Peace Barrel,' laid down in 2001 in honor of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs' visit. It is a symbolic barrel, intended to be opened only when a lasting resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is achieved.
• Churchill's Alleged Favorite: Legend suggests that former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was a great admirer of ARARAT brandy, particularly the 'Dvin' blend, supposedly receiving regular shipments. While the story of it being his favorite might be embellished, a barrel is often pointed out in the cellars in his honor, adding to the mystique.
• Presidential and Diplomatic Barrels: The Yerevan Brandy Company has a tradition of dedicating barrels to notable figures. Many heads of state, diplomats, and international personalities have their own named barrels aging in the cellars, a testament to the brandy's global prestige.
• The Angel's Share: As brandy ages in oak barrels, a small portion evaporates through the wood. This evaporated spirit is affectionately known as the 'angel's share,' contributing to the unique aroma that permeates the aging cellars.
• Golden Apricot Connection: A special barrel was recently inaugurated in partnership with the Golden Apricot International Film Festival, symbolizing the shared cultural heritage and long-standing collaboration between ARARAT Armenian Brandy and the festival.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Historic Barrels at the Yerevan Brandy Company offers a profound sensory experience. Guided tours take curious travelers through the vast aging cellars, where the hushed atmosphere and the earthy, sweet scent of brandy create an immersive journey. Expert guides illuminate the intricate process of brandy production, from the selection of indigenous Armenian grapes like Voskehat and Kangun to the meticulous Charentais double-distillation method. Seeing the thousands of barrels, each contributing to the amber liquid's transformation, provides a deep appreciation for the time and skill involved. The highlight for many is the tasting session that concludes the tour, where different vintages and blends are sampled, allowing visitors to distinguish the subtle nuances and rich flavors unique to ARARAT brandy. It's an opportunity to connect with Armenia's rich cultural heritage and understand why ARARAT brandy holds such a special place in the country's heart.