Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience

Exploring the Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience in Armenia

If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Armenia’s winemaking craftsmanship, the Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience at MOONQ WINES offers something truly special. This tour isn’t your average wine tasting—it’s an intimate glimpse into Armenia’s unique viticultural traditions, centered around rare indigenous grapes like Nrneni. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a memorable outing for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What really catches our eye are the opportunity to sample award-winning wines made from tiny, carefully tended plots of native grapes, and the chance to see the winemaking process up close—plus, label your own bottle. On the downside, the duration is only about two hours, so if you’re after a massive tasting session or more extensive winery tours, this might feel a bit brief. Still, if you value quality over quantity and want a cozy, authentic Armenian experience, this tour is a solid pick. It’s probably best suited for adults who appreciate wine, nature, and a relaxed pace, but it’s also perfect for those who want to learn about Armenia’s rich winemaking heritage without the fuss.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to a family-run winery that produces award-winning wines from rare indigenous grapes.
• A personalized, small-group experience that allows you to see, taste, and even label your own bottle.
• Spectacular views of Mount Ararat in the tranquil Ararat Valley setting.
• Tasting a curated selection of five wines, including medals from IWSC and MUNDUS competitions.
• Includes a cheese and meat platter, Armenian pakhlava, and herbal tea, enhancing the tasting experience.
• A brief but immersive experience perfect for those wanting a taste of Armenian winemaking without a full day commitment.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Standing out immediately about this tour is its location—set in the lush, peaceful Ararat Valley with Mount Ararat as a breathtaking backdrop. The atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, thanks to the family-run nature of MOONQ WINES, which often means you get a more personal connection with the hosts. That’s a big plus in our book: it’s not a commercialized tasting room, but a real family’s craft.

The tour kicks off with an introduction to the family’s winemaking journey and the rare grapes they cultivate, especially the tiny plot of Nrneni. Because this grape is grown on less than half a hectare, it’s incredibly special—so much so that wines made from it have received international awards like the IWSC Bronze Medal for 2024. You’ll see the entire process, from grape selection and fermentation to bottling, which provides a genuine appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

One of the best parts? You get to label a bottle yourself. For wine enthusiasts and those who enjoy simple, meaningful souvenirs, this adds an extra layer of personalization to the experience. Plus, the guided tasting offers five wines, many of which have earned medals, such as the MOONQ Nrneni 2023 and MOONQ Coupage 2022. These wines showcase Armenia’s native varieties like Areni, Khndoghni, and Voskehat, giving you a true sense of the country’s distinct wine flavor profiles.

What to Expect During the Tasting

The tasting is designed to be both educational and indulgent. As you sample each of the five wines, you’ll learn about their origins and what makes each one unique. The wines are complemented with a thoughtfully curated pairing of Armenian cheeses, meats, and the local pakhlava—a Middle Eastern-style baklava that pairs beautifully with the herbal tea served at the end.

The inclusion of the MOONQ Voskehat (a white wine) and the Areni Rosé adds variety, making sure there’s something for all. The wines are described as award-winning and crafted with care, and based on the review, the quality really shows through. “Their Moonq range—crafted in small, handcrafted lots—” is a phrase that underlines the attention to detail involved.

The setting, with its serene views and fresh air, encourages a relaxed pace. You’ll likely find yourself lingering over the wines and conversation, which is exactly what makes this experience special. It’s not rushed, and you get a real sense of the local terroir and the passion behind each bottle.

The Value of the Experience

At $49 per person, this tour offers a solid value for an experience that’s both personalized and educational. While it’s not a full-day affair, the price reflects the quality of the wines, the intimate setting, and the behind-the-scenes look at Armenian winemaking traditions. In a world of mass-produced wines, tasting local, award-winning varieties directly from small batches—especially rare grapes like Nrneni—makes this a highlight for wine lovers.

The fact that it’s a private tour means your group can enjoy a more tailored experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and interact with the hosts. This personal touch, combined with the stunning views of Mount Ararat, makes it feel like a special occasion rather than just another tasting.

The Experience’s Drawbacks

While this is a beautifully curated experience, a couple of points might be worth considering. The tour lasts around two hours, which is enough for a solid tasting and a peek into the winemaking process, but not a lengthy exploration. If you’re someone who loves expansive tastings or multiple winery visits in one day, this might feel a bit limited.

Also, since the tour is set in a more tranquil, rural setting, transportation options could be something to think about—if you’re not staying nearby, you’ll want to plan your transfer. The tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s straightforward, but there’s no mention of transport arrangements included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience fits well for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity and are genuinely interested in Armenian wine and culture. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small, personal encounters and want to understand the stories behind the wines they drink. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or even solo and love tasting unique, award-winning wines in a scenic environment, this is a good choice.

It’s also suited for folks who value learning about indigenous grapes and want to see winemaking from start to finish. If you’re after a relaxed, culturally rich experience without the hustle, this will satisfy your curiosity and palate alike.

Final Thoughts

The Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience at MOONQ WINES offers a rare glimpse into Armenia’s indigenous winemaking traditions. Its personal, family-run approach, combined with the chance to taste highly awarded wines from tiny plots like Nrneni, makes it stand out. The views of Mount Ararat and the peaceful setting make this more than just a tasting; it’s a moment of connection with Armenia’s viticultural soul.

For wine lovers, curious travelers, or those seeking an authentic Armenian experience without the crowds, this tour is likely to delight. The price point is fair considering the quality, and the small-group or private format ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

If you’re after a memorable taste of Armenia’s native grapes and want to learn about the local wine culture, this experience checks all the boxes. Just keep in mind the short duration if you’re looking for something more extensive—this is a perfect, bite-sized journey into Armenian winemaking.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is designed for adults interested in wine, so it’s not specifically geared towards children or families. It’s a tasting experience that involves alcohol, so travelers should be of legal drinking age.

How much time does the experience last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, making it manageable even if you have a packed schedule.

What’s included in the tasting?
You’ll taste five wines, including award-winning varieties, and enjoy a meat and cheese platter, Armenian pakhlava, and herbal tea brewed in a traditional Tula samovar.

Can I label my own bottle?
Yes, part of the experience is the chance to label a bottle yourself, which makes for a special souvenir.

What are the views like?
Set in the peaceful Ararat Valley, the views of Mount Ararat are stunning and add a memorable backdrop to your tasting.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation isn’t explicitly included, so plan your arrival and departure accordingly. The meeting point is easy to find, but arranging your own transport might be necessary if you’re not staying nearby.

In all, this tour offers a meaningful and visually stunning way to connect with Armenia’s wine heritage—perfect for those looking for a relaxed, authentic experience with a touch of local craftsmanship.