Armenia — wine

Ararat Valley

The cradle of wine civilization, with archaeological evidence of winemaking dating to 6100 BCE (Areni-1 cave). Armenia's Ararat Valley and Vayots Dzor produce wines from the world's oldest winemaking traditions — Areni Noir, Kangun, and other ancient varieties grown on volcanic basalt and limestone at 900-1800m altitude.

Year Rating Notes
2022 Outstanding vintage; Areni Noir from the ancient Vayots Dzor slopes showed extraordinary transparency and mineral depth.
2021 Elegant high-altitude vintage; volcanic basalt soils delivered wines of haunting aromatic precision.
2020 Benchmark year; Zorah Karasi and Van Ardi Areni attracted international critical acclaim.
2019 Landmark vintage for Armenian wine; international sommeliers discovered Areni Noir for the first time.
2018 Solid vintage; the ancient vine material produced wines of distinctive character at all quality levels.