Discover Armenian wines

Pianist Sona Shaboyan from Armenia has been running the wine shop “Heres Wine” in Zurich since 2018, where she offers only wines from her hometown. When she visits Blick, she talks about viticulture in Armenia with infectious enthusiasm.

“I’m not only interested in wine, but also in its rich history,” Shaboyan says. Armenia and the neighboring region of Georgia are the cradles of viticulture, as evidenced by archaeological excavations. It wants to share and keep this cultural and culinary heritage alive.

diversity and originality

Armenia has ideal conditions for viticulture: a sunny, dry climate, poor soil and high temperature differences between day and night. This is a good basis for concentrated wines with a pleasant acidity. The vines grow to an impressive height of 1700 meters and can be grown naturally due to rare rainfall.

Armenia stands out from other viticulture regions due to the richness of local grape varieties. Kicks that are easier on the lips, such as Kratsiteli, Mskhali, Voskehat, and Areni grapes, become versatile wines.

The taste of wines is very accessible and goes well with all kinds of dishes. “This is why restaurateurs are becoming more and more interested in Armenian grape varieties,” Shaboyan says.

Curious wine lovers

For them, the winemaker’s job is comparable to composing a piece of music. For this reason, it is important for him to reflect his characters in wine and to create harmony.

That’s what your customers are looking for too. Among their customers are curious wine lovers who seek an amazing taste experience. “Swiss people love to discover something new,” says Shaboyan.

This is how Armenian newcomers taste

I tasted white and red wines in Shaboyan’s elegant vaulted cellar. It was new territory for me. So I was excited about what to expect. Can Armenian wines compete with well-known wine countries?

Koor 2021 White is a varietal white wine made from the Voskehat grape. I was immediately impressed by the dense bouquet of fully ripe apricots and peaches. The Armenian sun shines on the palate. Pineapple and mango notes are added to the stone fruit. An aromatic, full-bodied drop.

Old Bridge 2015 is a red wine based on the Areni grape. It is considered the mother of the noble grape. In addition to a nice ripeness, this wine also offers a refreshing acidity and pleasant spiciness. Clove, vanilla and smoky notes characterize this impressive wine.

For me this will definitely not be my last taste of Armenian wines.

Guest of Honor at Expovina

If you want to look beyond your own glass, you can do so at Expovina in Zurich until 17 November 2022. Armenia is this year’s guest country.