Adam Baker

8.9

Drank with Meddy’s. Good depth of flavor. Red berries, strawberry, but also some spice. Armenian. Good with food. — 19 days ago

with Elissa

Freddy R. Troya

9.4

Grigorian Winery – Aygabats / Tigrani / 2022
Ararat Region – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Crafted from 100% Tigrani, a rare Armenian indigenous grape, this red dry wine reflects the terroir of the Ararat Valley, with its volcanic soils and high-altitude climate. A modern revival of an ancient grape with deep cultural ties to the region.

Aromas & Flavors
Lively notes of red cherry, wild strawberry, and pomegranate, layered with hints of mountain herbs, spice, and a subtle earthy undertone.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied, fresh acidity, and smooth tannins. Clean and elegant with a bright, balanced finish.

Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with lamb kebabs, roasted eggplant, stuffed grape leaves, or aged Armenian cheeses like Lori or Chanakh.

Verdict
A rare, expressive red that highlights Armenia’s indigenous winemaking heritage. Approachable yet distinctive, it’s a conversation starter for anyone curious about Armenia’s hidden grape treasures.

Did You Know?
The Tigrani grape is named after King Tigran the Great, one of Armenia’s most celebrated rulers. Though nearly forgotten for centuries, it has been revived by select producers in the Ararat Valley as part of Armenia’s indigenous grape renaissance.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
One of my favorite styles of Armenian reds, so approachable and balanced that it’s dangerously easy to chug among friends. A perfect door-opener to appreciating truly traditional Armenian wines. — 8 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Koghba – Dry White Wine
Koghb, Tavush Province – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A serious and complex white crafted from 70% Banants and 30% Rkatsiteli, two indigenous Armenian grapes. This blend from Tavush province leans into oxidative winemaking, giving it a bold and distinctive style that recalls Sherry Fino — but without the solera system, making it unmistakably Armenian.

Aromas & Flavors
Nutty, oxidative layers of almonds and walnuts unfold with ripe banana and subtle orchard fruit. A savory, mineral streak and a faint touch of salinity frame the wine, creating depth and intrigue.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied and textural, with oxidative tension driving through the mid-palate. The finish is long, persistent, and contemplative — it keeps your palate engaged well beyond the sip.

Food Pairing
Ideal with aged cheeses, roasted nuts, and Mediterranean mezze. Adventurous drinkers will enjoy it alongside sushi or earthy mushroom dishes.

Verdict
A thought-provoking white wine that blends indigenous grapes with oxidative character. Not for the casual sipper, but for wine explorers and Sherry lovers, it’s a rare and rewarding find. Cheers!🥂 — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Armas Estate – Uru Uu Karmrahyut 2015
Aragatsotn Province, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Made from 100% Karmrahyut, an indigenous Armenian tenturier grape (red pulp as well as skin), this bottling from Armas Estate shows just how approachable and crowd-pleasing ancient varietals can be when crafted with precision.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe cherry, plum, and pomegranate notes mingle with subtle floral tones and earthy undertones. A touch of spice and soft herbs lift the nose, while the palate is juicy, silky, and surprisingly elegant for such a deeply pigmented grape.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with rounded tannins, approachable acidity, and a smooth finish that makes this red both distinctive and easy to love.

Winemaking Notes
Armas Estate, founded by the Armas family, is dedicated to reviving Armenia’s indigenous grapes through modern yet respectful techniques. Karmrahyut—rare outside Armenia—offers naturally high pigment and structure, but here it’s crafted for charm as much as power.

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with lamb kebabs, roasted vegetables, dolma, and aged Armenian cheeses.

Verdict
A true expression of Armenian heritage made modern, this 2015 Uru Uu is a gem for wine adventurers and an approachable introduction to Armenia’s native reds.

Personal Pick Highlight
I had the privilege of hosting a class with Victoria Aslanian herself—one of the estate’s owners—which made this bottle not just delicious, but deeply memorable. — 10 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Karas Malbec 2023
Ararat Valley, Armavir Region, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A bold single-varietal 100% Malbec from Karas Winery, crafted in the sun-drenched Ararat Valley under the watchful gaze of Mount Ararat. The volcanic soils and continental climate—hot summers, cold winters, and nutrient-rich basalt—lend the wine distinctive character and regional authenticity  .

Aromas & Flavors
Rich aromas of ripe blackberry and dark plum, gently spiced and supported by nuances of tobacco and earth. On the palate—structured with smooth tannins, the fruit is accompanied by hints of five-spice and a whisper of savory complexity  .

Mouthfeel
Medium to full-bodied, with a polished texture and harmonious balance. The finish lingers with dark fruit and subtle spice—both generous and refined  .

Winemaking Notes
Hand-harvested and meticulously selected Malbec, fermented in controlled conditions, followed by malolactic fermentation in stainless steel to preserve freshness and varietal clarity .

Food Pairing
An ideal companion to grilled lamb, roasted duck, mushroom-rich dishes, or barbecued meats—this wine’s dense fruit and structured finish stand up beautifully to bold flavors.

Verdict
A compelling and expressive Armenian Malbec. It balances regional identity with depth and approachability, offering both terroir authenticity and enjoyable modern appeal. — 10 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Gevorkian Winery, Makhani Reserve 2019
Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A bold red blend of indigenous Armenian grapes — Areni, Haghtanak, Kakhet, and Karmrahyut — crafted using the ancient Kakhani method (three-month grape withering before vinification). This traditional approach, combined with aging in Armenian oak, makes it one of the most unique expressions of Armenia’s resurgent wine culture.

Aromas & Flavors
The nose opens with withered grapes and candied fruits, layered with blackberry jam, prunes, vanilla, and powdered cocoa. The palate continues with rich black fruits, mahogany, and leather, while notes of spice and dark chocolate build depth.

Mouthfeel
Robust, full-bodied, with structured tannins and pleasant acidity. It carries warmth from its high alcohol (16% ABV), bordering on fortified in style. Multilayered and powerful, the wine evolves in the glass but benefits from extended air contact.

Winemaking Notes
Aged 6 months in new Armenian oak, then an additional 18 months in seasoned barrels. This unique use of century-old oak imparts a distinct, rustic backbone. 2019 is drinkable now but will likely show best by 2027.

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with fatty steaks, venison, matured cheeses, cream-based desserts, or even high-cocoa dark chocolate (75–85%). Its powerful structure makes it highly versatile for bold gastronomy.

Verdict
A muscular, complex red that captures Armenia’s ancient heritage and modern ambition in winemaking. A true statement wine — unforgettable and worth cellaring. — a year ago

Eric Urbani

9.0

Wine making in this Armenian region dates back 6,100 years. Blend of four indigenous varietals. 13.5% abv — 2 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

KEF by Karas White 2023, Armavir, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A lively and approachable white blend from the Armavir region in Armenia’s Ararat Valley. Produced by the team behind Karas Wines, this wine blends 60% Kangun (an indigenous Armenian grape) with 40% Chenin Blanc, combining local heritage with international structure. The name “Kef” derives from the Armenian word for feast or celebration, reflecting the wine’s convivial and easy-drinking spirit.

Aromas & Flavors
Fresh grapefruit, white flowers, citrus peel, and subtle mineral notes. The Chenin Blanc adds brightness and lift while Kangun contributes texture and gentle orchard-fruit character.

Mouthfeel
Light to medium-bodied with crisp acidity and refreshing vibrancy. Smooth and clean on the palate with a lively, food-friendly finish.

Food Pairings
Mediterranean mezze, grilled vegetables, seafood, fresh salads, herb-driven dishes, or light poultry.

Verdict
A fun and compelling blend that highlights Armenia’s indigenous Kangun while remaining accessible through Chenin Blanc’s familiar structure. Underrated, refreshing, and very easy to enjoy.

Did You Know?
Armenia is considered one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, with winemaking traditions dating back more than 6,000 years, including the discovery of the world’s oldest known winery in the Areni cave complex.

🍷 Personal Pick
A vibrant and joyful wine that delivers authenticity and approachability at the same time. A great introduction to Armenian whites while still showcasing the personality of Kangun. — 4 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Bagratuni Blanc Reserve – 2022
Vayots Dzor – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Blend: 70% Voskehat, 30% Khatun Kharji. Indigenous Armenian grapes grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Vayots Dzor. Aged for 6 months in Artsakh oak, giving the wine a uniquely regional identity.

Aromas & Flavors
An expressive white that immediately shows character. Notes of ripe pear, quince, and citrus peel mingle with almond and a subtle honeyed accent. The Artsakh oak adds a whisper of spice and texture without overpowering the fruit. Medium-bodied, fresh yet layered, with a long, mineral-inflected finish that leaves a lasting impression.

Mouthfeel
Smooth entry with a firm backbone, slightly waxy texture, and balanced acidity. The oak aging brings depth and roundness while preserving freshness.

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with aged cheeses, roasted poultry, grilled trout, or more adventurous pairings like herb-driven Mediterranean cuisine.

Verdict
A serious and distinctive white for wine adventurers. The Artsakh oak aging sets it apart from typical whites, showcasing the depth of Armenia’s indigenous grapes. A bottle that both educates and surprises. Cheers!

Did you know?
Voskehat is often called the “Queen of Armenian Grapes,” prized for its age-worthy potential. Khatun Kharji, a rarer variety, brings aromatic lift and texture to the blend. — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Noravank Blanc – 2023
Vayots Dzor – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Crafted from a blend of indigenous Kangun, Khatun Kharji, and Aligoté grapes grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Vayots Dzor, this wine showcases the unique expression of Armenia’s mountainous terroir. The elevation and rocky soils bring both aromatic intensity and vibrant freshness.

Aromas & Flavors
Stone fruits lead the way, with peach and apricot layered alongside subtle citrus zest. There’s an underlying floral lift and a faint mineral edge that speaks to its high-altitude origins.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with a noticeable texture and lively tension. The acidity keeps it crisp, while the finish lingers with a clean, slightly savory note.

Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with Mediterranean mezze, grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and salty cheeses like feta or halloumi.

Verdict
A harmonious and expressive Armenian white — distinctive, textured, and aromatic. A real discovery for those exploring indigenous grapes.

Did You Know?
The rare Khatun Kharji grape is unique to Armenia and seldom found outside the Vayots Dzor region. Blending it with Kangun and Aligoté reflects both heritage and experimentation, offering a modern take on Armenia’s ancient winemaking roots. — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Karas “Kraki Ktor” Orange Wine 2022
Ararat Valley, Armavir Region, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Karas named this wine “Kraki Ktor” (“piece of fire” in Armenian), a bold expression of indigenous Kangun grapes made in the ancestral orange wine style. Crafted in volcanic soils near Mount Ararat, it celebrates Armenia’s millennia-old winemaking tradition—bringing the ancient karas (clay amphora) and modern elegance into a single glass.   

Aromas & Flavors
Delicately perfumed with orange blossom, ripe citrus, and bergamot, paired with nuanced quince and apricot. On the palate, it’s layered and softly savory, finishing with a gentle tannic grip and lingering dried fruit nuance.   

Mouthfeel
Silky, slightly cloudy, and texturally complex—sledding effortlessly across the palate, offering a refreshingly structured yet soft finish.  

Winemaking Notes
Fermented with 10 months of skin contact in stainless steel tanks, then bottled unfiltered and unstabilized to preserve its raw, authentic character and vivid depth. 

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with creamy vegetable stews, roasted poultry, hearty salads, or richer seafood dishes. It also makes a vibrant aperitif or companion for eclectic mezze plates. 

Verdict
Kraki Ktor 2022 is a captivating, terroir-forward orange wine that brings Armenia’s winemaking soul to life. It’s adventurous yet refined—perfect for those ready to explore natural, heritage-driven wines with energy and depth. Cheers! — 10 months ago

Diane Heyboer

8.9

Enjoyed this one with an Armenian Lahmajun flatbread. Some raisin, blueberry, black cherry and something floral (hibiscus?) on the nose. Lighter body with a light tannic finish. Picking up some raspberry, cherry and green apple in the middle. Paired incredibly well with the lamb flatbread tonight. Really enjoyed this. — 10 months ago

with Matthew, Ethan and 2 others

Joe DAscoli

9.3

Impromptu Armenian Christmas dinner party This wine delivered with about a 1 hour decant — a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Armas Estate “Uru Uu” Rosé 2021
Aragatsotn, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A standout rosé crafted from 100% Karmrahyut, one of Armenia’s rare indigenous tenturier grapes (red skin and red pulp). Known for its deep pigmentation and perfumed character, Karmrahyut gives this wine its signature vibrancy. Fun fact: “Karmrahyut” translates to “red juice” in Armenian!

Aromas & Flavors
Bursting with rose petals, ripe red cherries, and a delicate lift of wildflowers. A subtle touch of honey rounds out the profile, adding nuance without sweetness.

Mouthfeel
Light yet textural — thanks to 5 months sur lie aging, which provides a silky, subtle creaminess beneath the bright fruit. Crisp, lively, and elegant.

Winemaking Notes
The sur lie contact enhances body and texture while maintaining freshness, making this rosé a fascinating blend of aromatic intensity and structure.

Food Pairing
Perfect with mezze platters, summer salads, fresh goat cheese, or even salmon tartare. Its floral-fruity core also works beautifully with mildly spiced Middle Eastern cuisine.

Verdict
An interesting and distinctive rosé — perfumed, layered, and true to Armenia’s unique terroir. Not your average pink sip — this one carries both charm and character. — 2 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Karas Reserve Blend 2016 — Mount Ararat, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A sophisticated Old-World inspired blend grown in the Armavir region at the foothills of Mount Ararat. Aged in Armenian oak. Composition: Syrah 35%, Malbec 35%, Cabernet Franc 20%, Tannat 10%. A wine rooted in one of the world’s most ancient winemaking cultures — 6,200 years in the making.

Aromas & Flavors
Red compote, black plum, dried cherry, subtle baking spice, cedar, and a hint of earthy volcanic dust. Layers unfold slowly with touches of cocoa and dried herbs.

Mouthfeel
Medium-plus body, beautifully integrated tannins, silky and rounded. Balanced acidity with mature harmony from bottle age. Structured yet graceful, nothing sharp, everything in sync.

Food Pairings
Lamb kebabs, grilled eggplant, slow-braised short ribs, aged Gouda, or spiced Middle Eastern dishes.

Verdict
Worth the wait. The 2016 vintage shows evolution, composure, and balance. A blend that overdelivers, polished, expressive, and deeply satisfying. A reminder that Armenia is not just historic… it’s seriously compelling in the glass.

Did You Know?
Armenia is considered one of the birthplaces of wine. The Areni-1 cave complex revealed the world’s oldest known winery, dating back over 6,000 years.

🍷 Personal Pick
Holding this bottle paid off. A mature, balanced Armenian blend that danced on the palate and proved patience is sometimes the best decanter.
— 5 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Galar – Haghtanak Dry Red 2023
Armavir Region – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview:
100% Haghtanak, an indigenous Armenian red grape known for its deep color and juicy profile. Cultivated in the Armavir region, where sun-soaked plains meet cooling breezes from Mount Ararat.

Aromas & Flavors:
A medley of ripe berries, blackberry, cherry, and mulberry, it mingles with subtle floral undertones. Juicy and fruit-forward without being overripe.

Mouthfeel:
Silky and smooth, with polished tannins that glide across the palate. Medium-bodied with a long yet gentle finish that leaves a clean impression.

Food Pairings:
Pairs effortlessly with roasted lamb, grilled vegetables, Armenian khorovats (BBQ), or even simple flatbreads with herbs and cheese.

Verdict:
Casual, approachable, and versatile, this Haghtanak showcases Armenia’s ability to deliver reds that balance freshness with smooth elegance. A great introduction to the country’s unique red varietals. Cheers!

Did You Know?
Haghtanak means “victory” in Armenian. The grape was bred in the mid-20th century by crossing indigenous varieties with Saperavi, giving it both resilience in the vineyard and a naturally inky depth in the glass. — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.2

Dzor Em Blanc – 2023
Aghavnadzor Village, Vayots Dzor – Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Crafted from indigenous Armenian white varieties grown at 1,520m altitude on volcanic basalt and limestone soils. Organic and from own-rooted vines (10 years old). This wine is all about terroir-driven expression, offering a distinct profile unlike any other.

Aromas & Flavors
Stone fruits (apricot, white peach), subtle citrus zest, and pronounced wet-stone minerality. Medium acidity with layers of tension, giving an intellectual edge.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied, textural, with a lively, slightly saline backbone. The volcanic influence pushes through on the finish with precision and grip.

Food Pairing
Ideal with grilled trout, dolma, or Mediterranean mezze spreads. It also pairs beautifully with salty cheeses like halloumi or feta.

Did You Know?
Armenia’s Vayots Dzor is one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world—archaeological finds date wine production here back over 6,000 years, with qvevri-style vessels similar to Georgia’s.

Verdict
A compelling, brainy wine—mineral-driven and thought-provoking. It might not be for everyone, but adventurous palates will revel in its volcanic intensity. Cheers! — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

Karas Red Wine 2022
Armavir Region, Ararat Valley, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
From the esteemed Karas winery—named for the ancient clay amphorae (“karas”) central to winemaking heritage—comes this dynamic 2022 red blend. A bold yet nuanced mix of 35% Syrah, 35% Malbec, and 30% Cabernet Franc, it harnesses the volcanic soils and extreme continental climate of Armenia’s Ararat Valley. Karas blends centuries-old tradition with sustainable modern winemaking in this compelling entry.  

Aromas & Flavors
Deep aromas of dark cherry, ripe raspberry, and pomegranate, spiced by Syrah’s savory pepper bite and accented by smoky, green-pepper notes from the Cabernet Franc. The palate remains elegant, with fresh dark fruit layered over subtle spice and smoke notes. 

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with bright acidity and smooth, approachable tannins. It finishes with charm, balancing structure and drinkability perfectly. 

Winemaking Notes
Crafted with hand-harvested fruit and fermentation followed by gentle aging—likely in stainless steel or neutral vessels—to preserve purity of fruit. Karas emphasizes eco-conscious practices and respects its heritage while pushing Armenian wine into the global spotlight.  

Food Pairing
Versatile and friendly at the table: pairs beautifully with braised red meats, burgers, pulled pork, earthy pasta, barbecue, or tangy cheese. 

Verdict
Karas Red Wine 2022 is a balanced, vibrant, and terroir-driven blend that showcases Armenia’s winemaking heritage and dynamic present. A compelling value—rich yet accessible and endlessly charming. — 10 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Gevorkian “Hay” Pét-Nat Areni Rosé 2023
Vayots Dzor, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Made using the ancestral méthode pétillant naturel (Pét-Nat), this lively rosé from Gevorkian Winery offers a fresh spin on ancient Armenian tradition. Crafted from 100% Areni, Armenia’s acclaimed indigenous red grape, grown in the high-altitude, volcanic soils of Vayots Dzor, it beautifully bridges heritage and modern curiosity.  

Aromas & Flavors
A charming pale pink with delicate bubbles. It opens with floral notes and wild meadow flowers, followed by juicy raspberry, strawberry, and red currant. The palate is energized by bright acidity and a silky texture, finishing with a lingering raspberry flourish.  

Mouthfeel
Light, vivacious, and refreshing—elegant bubbles and invigorating acidity enhance its joyful, effortless character. Perfect as a palate cleanser or celebratory pour.  

Winemaking Notes
Pét-Nat style means natural fermentation starts in tank or barrel and finishes in-bottle, creating subtle effervescence without added yeast or sugar. It’s a minimal-intervention wine that stays true to its varietal and soil.  

Food Pairing
A delightful match for fresh spring salads, mezze, sushi, grilled seafood, or light cheeses. Its lively character also makes it perfect for sipping solo or lifting casual gatherings.  

Verdict
Hay Pét-Nat Areni Rosé 2023 is a radiant and expressive natural sparkling wine that puts Armenia—and its revered Areni grape—on the global pét-nat map. A playful, terroir-rich sipper with roots in one of the world’s oldest winemaking cultures. Cheers! — 10 months ago

Joe DAscoli

9.1

This was more elegant and less flavorful than expected

Very light fruit and minimal oak

Paired with giant 12oz lobster tails. Happy Armenian Christmas!

Crazy thing happened with the pairing. This wine tasted like a fresh shucked raw oyster. Dead on after a bite of lobster, like eating an oyster chaser. Wild. — a year ago