Tasting Rooms

Overview

Nestled in the heart of Yerevan, Armenia, the Tasting Rooms of the Yerevan Brandy Company offer a captivating journey into the world of legendary ARARAT brandy. This iconic institution, often referred to as the ARARAT Museum, stands as a testament to Armenia's rich winemaking heritage and distilling prowess. Visitors embark on a sensory exploration, understanding not just the product, but the history, culture, and craftsmanship deeply intertwined with this celebrated Armenian spirit. The company's products, marketed under the ARARAT brand, are recognized internationally.

A visit to the Tasting Rooms goes beyond merely sampling; it is an immersive experience designed to reveal the intricate process of brandy creation, from the unique Armenian grapes grown in the sun-drenched Ararat Valley to the aging in Caucasian oak barrels. It's a chance to savor the distinct profiles of various ARARAT brandies, each with its own story and character, making it an essential stop for any curious traveler in Yerevan.

History & Cultural Background

The story of Armenian brandy production began in 1887 when Nerses Tairyan, a merchant of the first guild, established a distillery in Yerevan. Influenced by his cousin Vasily Tairov, he introduced classic French distillation technology to Armenia. This pioneering spirit laid the foundation for what would become a globally recognized brand. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the enterprise became part of the Shustov and Sons partnership. Under Nikolay Shustov's leadership, Armenian brandy gained international acclaim, notably receiving the Grand Prix at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, granting it the right to be called 'cognac' despite not being from the Cognac region of France.

During the Soviet era, the company was nationalized and became a crucial part of the centralized wine and brandy trust. Master blenders like Markar Sedrakyan created renowned blends such as Akhtamar, Nairi, and Dvin during this period. In 1953, the factory moved to its current monumental building overlooking the Hrazdan River, marking the beginning of its independent history. After Armenia regained independence, the Yerevan Brandy Company was acquired by the international group Pernod Ricard in 1998, further modernizing production and expanding its global reach while preserving its rich heritage. Armenian brandy is produced using locally grown grapes and aged in Caucasian oak barrels, contributing to its unique taste and aroma.

What Makes It Special

The Tasting Rooms at the Yerevan Brandy Company offer a unique educational and sensory experience that sets them apart. Unlike a typical bar tasting, here, visitors are guided by experts who unveil the nuances of each brandy, explaining the characteristics to look for and the proper way to enjoy them. The tour typically includes a visit to the ARARAT Museum, where the brand's over 120-year history is showcased through archival materials, historical equipment, and interactive exhibits. Guests can also tour an active aging cellar, witnessing thousands of oak barrels where the brandy spirits mature for years, sometimes decades.

The tasting sessions themselves are meticulously curated, offering various packages to suit different preferences. Options often include sampling younger brandies like ARARAT 3 Stars or Ani (7-year-old), and more premium, aged varieties such as Akhtamar (10-year-old), Vaspurakan (15-year-old), and Nairi (20-year-old). These tastings are often accompanied by water and sweets, enhancing the experience. The combination of historical context, insight into the production process, and expert-led tasting makes the visit to the Yerevan Brandy Company's Tasting Rooms a truly special and memorable cultural immersion.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Armenian brandy is steeped in fascinating stories and cultural significance. One of the most notable tales involves Winston Churchill, who was reputedly a great admirer of Armenian brandy, particularly Dvin. Legend has it that he regularly ordered crates of it, a testament to its exceptional quality. The factory also houses a symbolic 'Peace Barrel,' set aside to be opened only when the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan is resolved, a poignant detail that speaks to the region's hopes for harmony.

The connection to Mount Ararat, the biblical resting place of Noah's Ark, is central to the brand's identity. While the mountain itself lies outside modern Armenia's borders, it remains a powerful national symbol, and its image is prominently featured by the company. The use of indigenous Armenian grape varieties from the Ararat Valley and aging in special Caucasian oak barrels are not just production methods but integral parts of the brandy's unique heritage and flavor profile. The museum also features a bas-relief inspired by Hovhannes Aivazovsky's painting 'Noah Descends from Ararat,' further embedding the brandy's narrative in the ancient history and myths of Armenia.

Visitor Perspective

For visitors, touring the Tasting Rooms at the Yerevan Brandy Company is a highly recommended cultural experience. It is advisable to book tours in advance, especially for English-language guides, as popular time slots can fill up quickly. Tours are available in multiple languages, including Armenian, Russian, English, French, and German, typically lasting between 1 to 1.5 hours.

The journey through the ARARAT Museum and cellars culminates in the tasting session, where guests can appreciate the different age statements and flavor nuances of the brandies. It's an opportunity to learn about food pairings and how to distinguish between various blends. The company is located at 2 Admiral Isakov Avenue, offering panoramic views of Yerevan and, on clear days, Mount Ararat itself. It's an immersive dive into Armenia's liquid gold, a journey that blends education, history, and pure enjoyment.