Yerevan: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Lunch at Voskeni Winery

If you’re visiting Armenia and want to get a real taste of its winemaking heritage, this wine tasting experience at Voskeni Winery could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a compact 2.5-hour journey that combines a fascinating family story, a walk through historic vineyards, a peek behind the scenes at the winery, and a delicious meal paired with four local wines. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and where it might fall short—to help you decide whether it fits your travel plans.

What really draws us to this experience are the knowledgeable guides who share authentic family stories, adding a personal touch, and the breathtaking views of Mount Ararat that provide a stunning backdrop for the tasting. The fact that you get to enjoy a full Armenian meal, featuring local cheeses, grilled fish, and traditional desserts, makes it feel like a true taste of Armenia’s culinary culture—all for a reasonable $70.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a relatively short tour—just two and a half hours—so if you’re after a deep dive into Armenian wine, you might find this more of a taste than an extensive exploration. Also, the experience is based at the winery near Armavir, which requires you to make your way there, so some planning is needed.

This tour is especially suited for curious travelers who love good stories, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavors in a relaxed setting. If you’re interested in learning about Armenian wine’s history and enjoy beautifully crafted wines with a view, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points:

• Authentic family history adds a personal touch to the experience
• Stunning views of Mount Ararat enhance the tasting atmosphere
• Includes a full Armenian meal paired with four wines
• Guided tour of vineyards and production facility offers insight into wine-making
• Small gift from Voskeni Wines as a friendly gesture
• Private group experience keeps things intimate and relaxed

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and How It Unfolds

When you book the Voskeni Winery tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish. The experience kicks off right at the winery, which is conveniently located near Armavir. The guided vineyard tour is more than just a walk through the vines; it’s an opportunity to hear the story of how the family’s winemaking journey nearly disappeared and was revived. The guides share heartfelt family stories, showcase old photographs, and explain what makes the Ararat Valley’s terroir so special for wine production.

The vineyard and family history are the heart of this experience. We loved how the guide brought the family’s journey to life, making it more than just a tour but a story of resilience and passion. You get to see the old family photographs, which give a tangible sense of connection to the land and history.

Next, you’ll visit the production area where the wine is made. From tanks and barrels to the processes involved, it’s a behind-the-scenes look that wine lovers will appreciate. The guides make the complex process accessible, making sure you leave with an understanding of how Voskeni wines are crafted.

The tasting session takes place outdoors in the vineyard’s open-air area, which is absolutely the highlight for many visitors. Imagine sitting with a glass of wine, the expansive view of Mount Ararat looming in the background, and a gentle breeze. You’ll taste four wines: Voskehat Dry White, Siro Dry Rosé, Areni Red Dry, and a choice of Haghatanak Red or Kangun White. Each wine offers a different taste profile, showcasing Armenia’s diverse grape varieties.

The meal served alongside the wines is a well-curated Armenian feast. You’ll enjoy an Armenian cheese plate, two seasonal salads, grilled fish and vegetables, Armenian sibas soup, fresh fruit, and a traditional dessert. After the meal, you can sip on coffee or tea, soaking in the views and the flavors.

The experience concludes with a small gift—a kind gesture that leaves you with a tangible memory of your Armenian wine journey. It’s a pleasant touch that shows the warmth of Voskeni Wines’ hospitality.

The Value of This Experience

At $70 per person, this tour offers a pretty good deal—especially considering the comprehensive nature of the experience. You’re getting a guided tour, four tastings, a full Armenian meal, stunning scenery, and a small gift. That’s quite a package for a couple of hours, making it suitable for those who want a meaningful taste of Armenian culture without spending a whole day.

While some reviews mention that the experience is intimate and relaxed, others note that the short duration might leave travelers wanting more if they’re enthusiasts. However, if your goal is to enjoy a well-organized, personal introduction to Armenian wine and scenery, it hits the right notes.

In-Depth Breakdown: Is It Worth It?

The Family Story and Guided Tour

What stands out most is the personal story of the family’s return to winemaking. It enriches the tasting by adding context and emotional depth. The guides are praised for being knowledgeable and warm, creating an inviting atmosphere. You’ll see old photographs and hear about how the vineyards were created a century ago, which adds a layer of authenticity that big commercial wineries might lack.

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The Vineyard and Production Visit

Walking through the vineyard allows you to see where the grapes grow, and the visit to the production facility offers a glimpse of the craftsmanship involved. While it’s not a detailed technical presentation, the tour provides enough background for you to appreciate the effort behind each bottle.

The Wine Tasting Experience

You’ll sample four wines, which include a dry white, a rosé, and two reds. The specific options—Voskehat, Siro Rosé, Areni, and either Haghatanak or Kangun—showcase Armenia’s diversity. The outdoor setting with Mount Ararat in view turns the tasting into a memorable event. Several visitors mention the wines as being well-made and reflective of local terroir, though some note that the offerings are limited in scope.

The Armenian Meal

The meal is thoughtfully curated, offering a taste of Armenian cuisine with a variety of dishes meant to complement the wines. It’s a hearty, flavorful spread that’s perfect after a wine tasting. The inclusion of a cheese plate, grilled fish, and traditional soup means you leave feeling satisfied and connected to local flavors.

The Small Gift and Final Touch

A small token from Voskeni Wines adds charm—something you can keep as a souvenir or a reminder of your Armenian wine adventure.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Getting there: The winery is near Armavir, so plan your transportation accordingly. You might need to arrange a taxi or private transfer.
• Timing: The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, so schedule accordingly—it’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
• Language: Guides speak Armenian, Russian, and English, ensuring clear communication.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is good to know for travelers with mobility needs.
• Group size: The experience is private, which means it’s tailored and intimate.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience works well for curious travelers who want more than just a tasting—they want to connect with Armenian wine’s history and enjoy spectacular scenery. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a personal touch and a good story, paired with solid wines and local food. It’s not a deep dive for hardcore enophiles but perfect for those seeking a meaningful, enjoyable introduction to Armenian winemaking.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is mainly focused on wine tasting and includes a full meal, so it might not be ideal for young children. However, older kids or teens interested in cultural experiences and scenic views could enjoy the setting and story.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including the vineyard walk, winery visit, tasting, and meal.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This offers flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s designed for private groups, making it a more intimate and personalized experience.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample Voskehat Dry White, Siro Dry Rosé, Areni Red Dry, and choose between Haghatanak Red or Kangun White.

Where do I meet?
The meeting point is directly at Voskeni Winery near Armavir—directions and details are provided when you book.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced experience—one that offers a glimpse into Armenian wine’s heritage, stunning scenery, and great food—this tour at Voskeni Winery ticks all those boxes. It’s a relaxed, friendly outing that feels authentic and personal, ideal for those who want a taste of Armenian culture away from the busy tourist spots.

While it’s not a lengthy or highly technical tour, it delivers genuine insight, warm hospitality, and beautiful views that will stay with you long after your visit. For travelers eager to connect with local traditions, enjoy good wines, and soak in breathtaking mountain scenery, this is worth considering.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate storytelling, scenic settings, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to spend a couple of hours in Armenia, it’s a lovely choice that won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: