Areni is a unique grape variety not only for its truly big age but also for its natural potential. It quite looks like Pinot Noir: it can show up in a full-body structure, brightly expressed tannins, as well as, coming from different regions of Armenia, it can demonstrate different colours in wine. Areni is a very flexible variety, and everything depends on the winemaker’s approach. Areni produces the most diverse styles of wine: bright, sparkling wines, light rose wines and powerful reds, with long ageing potential. Typical aromas of the variety are cherry, black pepper, black tea.

Areni is an indigenous Armenian grape variety, which belongs to the eco-geographical group of eastern grape varieties. It can be found in almost all winemaking regions of Armenia: it is especially expended in the western part of Vayots Dzor, by the banks of Aerpa River. Areni is considered one of the most valuable endemic grape varieties in Armenia. It grows on its original roots and some of the vines, still found in the territory of the country, reach the age of 120 years old. It was proved that this old grape variety comes from the same cave in Areni, where the oldest winery was discovered (4000 BC). Despite this, the archaeological and genetic investigations claim its constant cultivation in these territories for millenniums. The DNA analysis shows no connection with other grape varieties. Areni can freely consider the visit card of Armenia in winemaking.