VAYOTS DZOR

The jewel of Armenian winemaking heritage and birthplace of wine in the world Vayots Dzor thrives with winemaking monuments, traditions and indigenous, even wild grape varieties many of which are yet to be researched. The region lies at the southeastern end of Armenia. The world’s oldest-known wine cellar, dating from 6,200 years ago, has been uncovered in the Areni Cave in this region. The excavation group radiocarbon-dated the cave to 4200 BC, providing evidence that wine has played a central role since the beginning of Armenian history.

With vast mountainous expanses, lush river valleys, breathtaking gorges, and mysterious caves, Vayots Dzor has a wide variety of exceptional natural beauty.  The name literally means “Valley of Woes” because the area was devastated by several earthquakes during its history. The highest altitude vineyards of Armenia are located in Vayots Dzor region. This region provides us with the iconic grape Areni Noire (Sev Areni).

 

TERROIR

Altitude: 1000-1600 m above sea level

Soil type: light brown, brown

Climate: Average temperature during the day (January-July) is -3.8°C, +25.0°C. Average rainfall during vegetation is 219 mm. Sum of active temperatures during the year (+10°C and more) 3919°C.

Grape varieties: Areni Noire, Tozot, Voskehat, Khatoun Kharji, Movsesi, Seyrak Areni

PRODUCERS

GETNATOUN, HIN ARENI, KEUSH, KOOR, MARAN WINERY, OLD BRIDGE, TRINITY CANYON VINEYARDS, ZORAH