Wine tour: 4 wine factories & wineries in one day

If you’re seeking a comprehensive and relaxed way to explore Armenian wine, this Wine tour: 4 wine factories & wineries in one day offers an engaging journey through the region’s renowned vineyards and production facilities. For $330 per group of up to 6 people, the tour spans 7 hours and takes you to four carefully selected wineries in the Vayots Dzor Province. Led by Gregory, an experienced guide, you’ll enjoy exclusive services, including a luxury Mercedes vehicle, photo opportunities, and tastings at each stop.

This private, all-inclusive experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone interested in Armenia’s rich winemaking traditions. The tour’s pace balances delightful sightseeing with ample wine tasting, making it ideal for those who want a full day of discovery without feeling rushed. However, it’s important to note that meals and winery entrance tickets are not included, so plan accordingly. This tour suits individuals and small groups who appreciate comfort, informative guides, and authentic Armenian wines.

Key Points

• Private tour for up to 6 people at $330, lasting 7 hours.
• Visits four notable wineries: Tushpa, Areni, Momik, and Old Bridge.
• Includes tastings of red, white, and homemade wines with insights into local wine-making.
• Transportation is in a luxurious Mercedes vehicle with free Wi-Fi, drinks, snacks, and photo services.
• Guided in English, Russian, or Armenian by Gregory, who shares stories about each winery’s history.

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Starting from the Heart of Yerevan: Pickup and Transport Details

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Yerevan, where you step into a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes. Gregory, your guide, makes the journey enjoyable with refreshments, Wi-Fi, and an array of extras like chargers, umbrellas, and even blankets for comfort. The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, with pickup and drop-off included. The total duration is 7 hours, allowing enough time to visit all four wineries without feeling hurried.

This transportation setup is highly praised for its cleanliness and modern amenities, making the entire day smooth and fuss-free. The group size of up to 6 ensures a cozy atmosphere, where conversations and questions are easy to share. The timing generally starts around 10:00, but check availability for specific starting times.

Exploring the Famous Tushpa Wine Factory Near Mount Ararat

The first stop is the Tushpa wine factory, located on 6 hectares of grape fields in the Ararat Valley, just 30 km from Yerevan. The factory was established by Mihran Manasserian in the 90s, who built it from scratch, and its products are now exported to Russia and the USA. A highlight here is the opportunity to taste both red and white wines made from the Haghtanak grape variety, which grows abundantly in the fertile valley.

Visitors can explore the wine production plant, learning about the process from grape to bottle. The location offers beautiful views of Mount Ararat, perfect for taking memorable photos. The famous Tushpa wine was even blessed by the Pope in 2016, adding a special note of significance. Expect about an hour at this stop, including tastings and sightseeing.

Discovering Areni: Armenia’s Ancient Winemaking Center

Next is the village of Areni, long regarded as Armenia’s winemaking heartland. Situated in the Vayots Dzor region, along the Arpa River, it hosts two picturesque wineries where you’ll enjoy guided excursions and tastings of premium Armenian wines. Areni is famous for its annual wine festival held every October, where producers from across the country showcase their best products.

The tour includes a visit to the two wineries at the entrance of Areni, where the focus is on Armenia’s legendary wine varieties. The region’s ancient history as a vineyard area adds depth to the experience, and the tastings highlight the distinctiveness of Armenian grapes. Allocate about 40 minutes for this stop, with ample opportunity to ask questions and sample local flavors.

Exploring Momik Winery: A Family Legacy of Fine Areni Wines

The centerpiece of Armenian wine-making, the Momik Winery is located near Yeghegnadzor, on the vines of the Areni grape. Named after the legendary Armenian sculptor, it was founded by Nver Ghazaryan’s family, who have been making wine from the Areni grape for over 40 years. The winery gained recognition in 2011 when their wine was named Best Homemade Wine at the Wine Festival.

During your visit, the owner’s family guides you through the vineyards and explains the art of winemaking from the famous grapes. You will enjoy a wine tasting session featuring high-quality Armenian wines, with a focus on the Areni grape variety. This stop provides a personal touch and insight into Armenia’s family-run wineries. Expect about an hour here, with plenty of photo opportunities and wine knowledge.

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Visiting the Old Bridge Winery on the Banks of the Arpa River

The Old Bridge Winery, established in 1998 by the Khalatyan family, is located near Yeghegnadzor along the Arpa River. Named after a nearby 13th-century bridge, this winery has become a notable Armenian producer thanks to the family’s dedication and professional approach.

You’ll find the winery grounds visually appealing, with beautiful natural surroundings perfect for taking photos. The tour of the plant reveals the wine-making process, and tastings include varieties of Armenian wine that showcase the region’s diverse flavors. With about an hour allocated, this stop emphasizes both tradition and craftsmanship in Armenian wine production.

Comprehensive Tour Experience: Sightseeing and Cultural Insights

Throughout the day, Gregory enriches the experience by sharing stories about Armenia’s winemaking heritage, the history of each winery, and local traditions. Along the way, he points out sights of historical and cultural interest, making the drive as engaging as the stops. His professionalism and friendliness receive praise in reviews for creating a warm, informative atmosphere.

The tour maintains a relaxed pace, allowing visitors to absorb the scenery and enjoy the tastings without feeling overwhelmed. The photo service ensures numerous memorable images are taken, capturing the beautiful landscapes and vintage winery settings.

Practical Details and What’s Included

This tour includes transportation in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, guide services in English, Russian, or Armenian, and Wi-Fi, making the entire experience convenient and comfortable. The treats in the car—such as coffee or tea, candy, and refreshments—add to the welcoming vibe.

Additional perks include a thermos for coffee or tea, chargers, headphones, and even umbrellas. All transportation expenses and hotel pickup and drop-off are covered, simplifying logistics. However, tickets to wineries and factories are not included, so those should be purchased separately if required.

Who Will Appreciate This Armenia Wine Tour?

This private tour is ideal for small groups or families who want an immersive day of wine tasting and sightseeing. It’s especially suitable for wine lovers eager to explore Armenia’s famous wine regions in a relaxed, informative setting. The 7-hour duration balances activity with leisure, making it a good choice for those who prefer a manageable pace.

While the tour is not suitable for children under 10 or individuals over 70 years old, it offers a wonderful blend of culture, scenery, and wine tasting for those able to enjoy several stops comfortably. The quality of service and enthusiasm of the guide make it a highly recommended option for visiting Armenia’s wineries.

Khor Virap and Other Similar Tours: How This One Stands Out

Compared to other tours in Yerevan, this experience focuses exclusively on wine, providing a deeper dive into Armenia’s long-standing winemaking culture. The inclusion of four wineries in one day, along with the luxury transport and guide, makes it a comprehensive and value-packed option.

While similar experiences may include different sites, this tour’s careful selection of wineries and personalized service set it apart. The reviews highlight the friendly guide, comfortable ride, and quality wine tastings as key reasons for its high rating.

Armenia’s Wine Heritage in a Nutshell

This tour offers a taste of Armenia’s rich wine-making tradition through visits to historic and modern wineries. It showcases family-run enterprises, like Momik, alongside established producers, such as Tushpa and Old Bridge. The region’s fertile vineyards and dedicated winemakers shine through each stop.

Expect to learn about Armenia’s unique grape varieties, such as Haghtanak and Areni, and savor handcrafted wines that reflect local terroir. The stories shared by Gregory deepen understanding and appreciation of Armenia’s wine heritage.

Final Thoughts on the Armenia Wine Tour: A Well-Rounded Experience

This private day trip offers a full immersion into Armenia’s wine culture, combining delicious tastings, stunning scenery, and insightful storytelling. The luxury transport and personalized guide service make it stand out as a convenient and comfortable way to spend a day.

While meals are not included, the quality of wines and the hospitable guide compensate for this, providing value for money. It’s well-suited for small groups wanting a dedicated, relaxed exploration of Armenia’s best wineries without the hassle of planning individual visits.

In sum, this tour offers an authentic taste of Armenia’s winemaking traditions in a high-quality package that most wine lovers and curious travelers will appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are meals included in this wine tour?
No, the tour does not include meals, but tastings of Armenian wines and local snacks are part of each winery visit.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years and not recommended for people over 70 years.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guidance is offered in English, Russian, and Armenian.

How much does the tour cost and what does it include?
The price is $330 per group of up to 6 people, including transportation, guide service, Wi-Fi, photo service, and treats in the car. Winery entrance tickets are not included.

How long is the tour and when does it start?
The duration is 7 hours, with start times available based on availability. The tour begins with hotel pickup in Yerevan.

Do I need to prepare anything for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, and be ready for wine tastings and sightseeing. No smoking is allowed in the vehicle.

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