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Experience the traditional method of sparkling wine-making at Hovaz Wines in Dilijan, Armenia, and cork your own bottle for $21 in a 1.5-hour guided tour.
The Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine tour at Hovaz Wines in Dilijan offers a hands-on experience that combines traditional wine-making techniques with a personal touch. For just $21 per person and a duration of 1.5 hours, this activity invites visitors to learn about Armenia’s sparkling rosé, participate in corking and labeling their own bottle, and enjoy a tasting with local delicacies. The guiding expert, Nelly, leads the group through the process in a private setting, making it ideal for those interested in authentic Armenian wine culture and interactive activities.
This tour emphasizes sustainable winemaking and highlights Armenia’s ongoing development in the wine industry. While it’s a compact experience, it offers meaningful insights into both traditional Champagne method practices and Armenia’s unique local grape varieties, making it a worthwhile choice for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
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At Hovaz Wines, the tour begins in their Tasting Room in central Dilijan, where the focus is on the traditional Champagne method. Visitors observe the process of producing sparkling rosé wines using the same techniques used in France, specifically focusing on bottling and secondary fermentation.
The guide explains how the lees, or leftover yeast particles, are removed from the bottles once fermentation is complete. This step is essential in achieving clear sparkling wine and is done carefully to ensure quality. The process showcases Armenia’s adaptation of European winemaking traditions, especially with the use of local Areni Noir grapes to produce the rosé.
One of the main highlights of this experience is the opportunity to cork and label your own bottle by hand. After the removal of lees, visitors cork their bottles, which they can later purchase and take home. The labeling process offers a chance to personalize the bottle, turning it into a memorable souvenir.
This activity is perfect for those who want a tangible connection to the experience, whether as a gift or a personal keepsake. The cost of the bottle isn’t included in the tour price, but the option to buy adds an extra layer of personal achievement and collectible value.
Following the hands-on activity, Nelly guides the group through a tasting of Hovaz Sparkling Rosé. The wine is paired with a local cheese and meat board, enriching the experience with local flavors that complement the wine’s fineness and fruitiness.
During the tasting, the guide shares tips on proper wine tasting techniques and offers insights into Armenia’s growing wine scene. Visitors also learn about local wine varieties, especially those made from Areni Noir grapes, which are used for the sparkling rosé.
More Great Tours NearbyThe tour departs from Hovaz Wines Tasting Room, situated in the heart of Dilijan, making it easy to find and access. The experience is wheelchair accessible and is designed as a private group, ensuring a comfortable and personalized atmosphere.
Bookers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and have the option to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to planning. Since smoking indoors is not allowed, the environment remains pleasant for all participants.
Hovaz Wines emphasizes support for sustainable winemaking and conservation of wildlife. The tour offers a deep dive into Armenian wine culture, from historical practices to modern developments. Visitors get a chance to appreciate the rich tradition of local winemaking while exploring innovative techniques.
This focus shows Hovaz Wines’ commitment to preserving Armenia’s winemaking heritage and promoting environmentally responsible practices.
Compared to other wine-tasting activities around Armenia, this experience stands out for its interactive element — actually corking and labeling your own bottle. The small, private group setting offers an intimate learning environment, and the local guide Nelly’s expertise ensures rich explanations about both the process and local wine culture.
For $21, the tour provides a compact yet meaningful look into sparkling wine production, paired with the chance to savor local flavors and own a personalized bottle as a takeaway.
This tour suits anyone curious about winemaking, especially those interested in traditional champagne techniques and Armenian wines. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, creative types, and travelers seeking unique souvenirs.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to the focus on wine tasting and alcohol consumption. Also, smoking indoors is not permitted, so smokers should plan accordingly.
The Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine experience at Hovaz Wines combines hands-on participation with educational insights into Armenia’s winemaking. For $21, the experience offers a personalized bottle, a guided tasting, and a chance to learn about traditional methods in a convenient central location.
While the activity is relatively short, its interactive nature and local flavor make it an appealing choice for those eager to connect with Armenia’s wine heritage. The private setting and support for sustainability add to its attractiveness for mindful travelers.
Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The focus is on wine production and tasting. Since tasting is part of the experience, it may not be suitable for non-drinkers, but the corking and labeling activity can still be enjoyed.
Can I take my corked bottle home?
Yes, you have the option to purchase the bottle you cork and label yourself, which you can then take home.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional guide, a glass of sparkling rosé, and a local cheese and meat board.
How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours.
What is the best way to get to the tour?
The meeting point is the Hovaz Wines Tasting Room in central Dilijan, easily accessible from the town center.
Are there any restrictions I should know?
Yes, smoking indoors is not allowed, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18.