As the rich and smooth flavors of the 15-year-old Ararat Dvin Reserve (brandy) from the Caucus region danced on our taste buds, we wondered how many people were aware of the role that the Ararat mountain played in the history of wine.
Did you know that the art of winemaking can be traced back to the foothills of the Ararat mountain in what is now the Armenia Republic? This ancient land is known as the birthplace of wine, yet its wines and brandies are little known compared to regions now synonymous with wine. But don’t let its lack of fame fool you; the quality and taste of Armenia’s brandies can rival that of the renowned French Cognacs.
Ararat Dvin Reserve greeted us with chocolate and vanilla, lingering with orange and a touch of almond aromas and flavor. Its smooth texture and light warming sensation tempt you to take another sip.
That’s precisely what we expect from similarly aged Cognac. While it’s hardly inexpensive at $150, it can easily challenge cognacs twice to three times more expensive, if not more.
While finding Armenian wines in the United States might be challenging, brandies are more readily available thanks to the large Armenian diaspora in California. Does the name Kardashians ring a bell?
The rich history and unique terroir of Armenia make its wine and brandy a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by wine enthusiasts.
What are your thoughts if you tried Armenian brandy? Any other off-bitten-pass cognac or brandy?
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