Wine Regions
With ancient indigenous grapes, Armenia’s rocky highland terroir, and abundant sun, the wine gains a unique taste and bouquet, making it well-suited for international competition
Armenian Winemaking Regions
Aragatsotn
Aragatsotn is one of Armenia’s key winemaking regions, located on the fertile slopes of Mount Aragats in the country’s west. The region stretches from high-altitude plateaus (up to 2,000 m) down to lower valleys, giving it diverse microclimates. Its volcanic and rocky soils, coupled with plenty of sunshine and cool nights, create ideal conditions for grape growing. Wines from this region are often aromatic and elegant, with balanced acidity thanks to the high-altitude vineyards. White wines (especially Voskehat-based) are crisp and mineral-driven, while reds tend to be structured yet fresh.
Location: Northwest of Yerevan, near Mount Aragats.
Climate & Terrain: Continental climate, volcanic soils, 1,000–1,500 m elevation.
Notable Varietals: Voskehat, Kangun, Haghtanak, Areni.
Highlights: Boutique wineries focusing on indigenous grapes.
Famous Wineries: Voskevaz Winery, ArmAs Estate.
Wines and grapes of Aragatsotn
Tavush
Tavush is one of Armenia’s northernmost winemaking regions, known for its green mountains, forests, and relatively humid climate compared to the country’s arid highlands.Located along the border with Georgia, Tavush is mountainous, covered with forests, and crossed by many rivers.Unlike the drier southern regions, Tavush has a cooler and more humid climate, with abundant rainfall and moderate summers.
Location: Northeastern Armenia, bordering Georgia.
Climate & Terrain: More humid, forested; mixed soils.
Notable Varietals: Rkatsiteli, Kakhet, local hybrids.
Highlights: Less-developed wine industry, small-scale and artisanal production.
Famous Wineries: Ijevan Wine-Brandy Factory.
Wines and grapes of Tavush
Vayots Dzor
Vayots Dzor is Armenia’s flagship wine region, birthplace of Areni Noir, and home to the world’s oldest known winery (Areni-1 cave, 6,100 years old). With its high-altitude terroir and focus on indigenous grapes, it produces Armenia’s finest, most internationally recognized wines.
Location: Southeastern Armenia, mountainous and high-altitude.
Climate & Terrain: Dry continental climate, volcanic soils, elevations from 850–1,800 m.
Notable Varietals: Areni (especially Areni Noir), Voskehat (white).
Highlights: Home to the Areni-1 cave, site of the world’s oldest known winery (4100 BCE).
Famous Wineries: Zorah, Old Bridge, Areni Winery.
Armavir
Armavir is Armenia’s heart of large-scale winemaking, combining ancient indigenous grapes with modern techniques. It’s home to the country’s biggest wineries (Armenia Wine, Karas) as well as boutique estates (Voskeni, ArmAs), making it a powerhouse region for both domestic and export markets.
Location: Western Armenia, part of the Ararat Plain.
Climate & Terrain: Warm climate, fertile soils.
Notable Varietals: Rkatsiteli, Karmrahyut, Haghtanak.
Highlights: Major grape-growing hub; modern production facilities.
Famous Wineries: Karas Wines, Voskeni Wines
Wines and grapes of Armavir
Ararat Valley
The Ararat Valley is Armenia’s historic winemaking cradle, blessed with volcanic soils and abundant sun. It’s the center of both fine wine and brandy production, hosting Armenia’s most iconic factories (Ararat, Noy) alongside modern wineries like Armenia Wine and Karas, making it the country’s most recognizable wine region internationally.
Location: Central Armenia, near Yerevan and Mount Ararat.
Climate & Terrain: Hot summers, fertile volcanic and alluvial soils.
Notable Varietals: Kangun, Voskehat, Kakhet, Haghtanak.
Highlights: Known for both still wines and brandy (Armenian Cognac).
Famous Wineries: Ararat Brandy Company, Armenia Wine Company.
Wines and grapes of the Ararat Valley
