An exploration of Armenia’s ancient wine history, focusing on indigenous varieties, evolving producers, and the landscapes behind them
I’m a pretty good traveler. Armenia is the 70th country I’ve visited, although I have to admit not knowing its capital city, Yerevan. This past May, Armenia hosted the prestigious CMB (Concours Mondial de Bruxelles) Red and White Wines Session in Yerevan. I received a press trip invite to participate. It’s significant for Armenia as it officially reopens its doors to the global wine community and enjoys its phoenix moment in the sun.
Many people believe that wine began in Western Europe, but evidence shows otherwise. Armenian wine is resurfacing after its tumultuous past, a past that dates back 7,000-some-odd years, with documented history of intentional winemaking (not simply spontaneous fermentation) dating back 6,000 years. You’ve heard of the “cradle of wine?” Armenia is one of the Caucasus region countries in the cradle. Read the entire article here on Vineroutes.