Nestled in the heart of Yerevan, Armenia, the Ararat Brandy Company has long been celebrated as a national treasure and a hallmark of quality brandy. This year, the distillery’s excellence was honored globally as it received the title of Europe’s Leading Brandy Distillery Tour at the 2024 World Travel Awards. For travelers seeking a unique blend of culture, tradition, and extraordinary craftsmanship, an Ararat Brandy tour has become a must-do experience in Armenia.
What Are the World Travel Awards?
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” the World Travel Awards were founded in 1993 to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in global travel and tourism. Each year, professionals and travelers around the world vote for their favorite travel destinations, hotels, and experiences. Winning a World Travel Award is a mark of quality, innovation, and popularity. For the Ararat Brandy Company, this award places it at the top of Europe’s brandy tourism destinations, highlighting its unique appeal to both brandy enthusiasts and culture seekers.
About Ararat Brandy: A Taste of Armenian Heritage
The story of Ararat Brandy dates back to 1887 when the first production began in Armenia. Known for its rich, smooth flavor, Ararat Brandy is crafted with Armenian grapes and pure spring water from the Ararat Valley, then aged in Caucasian oak barrels, which lend a distinctive character to the spirit. Over the years, Ararat Brandy has developed a loyal following worldwide. It’s even been enjoyed by historical figures like Winston Churchill, who reportedly became a fan after receiving a bottle from Joseph Stalin.
The Award-Winning Ararat Brandy Distillery Tour
The Ararat Brandy distillery tour offers visitors an intimate look at the making of this celebrated Armenian spirit. There are various tour options available, each led by expert guides who share the history, techniques, and legends surrounding Ararat Brandy. Visitors can explore the distillery rooms, where barrels are aged and stored, and get hands-on insights into the blending process that makes Ararat Brandy so distinctive.
Some tours offer exclusive tastings of the Ararat Brandy collection, including their aged reserves, paired with authentic Armenian delicacies. From the aroma to the flavor, the tasting sessions allow guests to appreciate the nuanced craftsmanship behind each bottle. Many visitors also leave with an appreciation for the deep cultural ties between Armenia and its iconic brandy—a connection that Ararat embodies and shares with each visitor.
Visiting Armenia and the Ararat Distillery
Located in Yerevan, the distillery is a stone’s throw away from some of Armenia’s other attractions, including the Matenadaran (a museum of ancient manuscripts) and the famous Cascade complex, making it a convenient addition to any Armenian itinerary. The distillery’s position in the heart of Yerevan allows visitors to pair their tour with other explorations of Armenian culture and history.
A Distillery Tour with a Distinctive Flair
Winning the World Travel Award for Europe’s Leading Brandy Distillery Tour is a proud moment for Armenia, further solidifying Ararat Brandy’s place in the world of fine spirits and luxury experiences. The tour offers visitors not only the chance to taste Armenia’s iconic brandy but also to immerse themselves in a piece of the country’s history and traditions.
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