Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience

Travelers craving a genuine taste of Armenian wine culture will find this Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience a compelling choice. Set in the gorgeous Ararat Valley, this tour offers not only a chance to sample unique wines but also to witness the traditional craft firsthand, all in an intimate family-run setting.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, it’s exclusive focus on Nrneni, a nearly-forgotten indigenous grape, grown on less than half a hectare. The personalized nature of the tour—only your group participates—means you’ll enjoy a quiet, engaging atmosphere that’s perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. The stunning views of Mount Ararat create an unforgettable backdrop, and the opportunity to label your own bottle adds a memorable touch.

The only potential consideration? At $49 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment, but given the rarity of the wines and the intimate setting, it offers excellent value for those interested in Armenian wine craftsmanship. It’s best suited for those who appreciate good wine, cultural authenticity, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious about Armenia’s lesser-known varieties, this tour is worth exploring.

Good To Know

• Exclusive focus on the indigenous Nrneni grape, grown on less than half a hectare—a rare find for wine lovers.
• Intimate, family-run winery setting ensures personalized attention and deeper insight.
• Includes a guided tasting of award-winning wines such as MOONQ Nrneni 2023 and MOONQ Coupage 2022.
• Opportunity to label your own bottle adds a fun, memorable element.
• Stunning views of Mount Ararat provide a scenic backdrop to the experience.
• Affordable at $49, with excellent value for the depth of authenticity and exclusivity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting: A Picturesque View of Mount Ararat

One of the most striking aspects of this tour is its location. Set in the breathtaking Ararat Valley, the winery’s outdoor views are nothing short of spectacular. As you arrive, you’re greeted by lush landscapes and the majestic silhouette of Mount Ararat, creating an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and inspiring. The tranquility of the surroundings enhances the tasting experience, making it more than just about the wines—it’s about soaking in the ambiance.

The Family-Run Winery: Authentic and Personal

MOONQ WINES is a family business, and that personal touch comes through from the moment you step inside. The guide shares their winemaking journey, including how they cultivate these rare grapes and craft their wines in small batches. This transparency and passion elevate the experience, making it more meaningful than a typical tasting.

From a review, we learn that the winery is located near the historic slopes of Mount Ararat, and the family’s dedication to their craft shines through. As one visitor noted, “Their Moonq range—crafted in small, handcrafted lots—is a revelation for anyone curious about contemporary Armenian winemaking.” Expect warmth, genuine storytelling, and a chance to see winemaking as an art rather than just a process.

The Winemaking Process: See and Learn

Guests don’t just taste the wines—they see how they’re made. You’ll explore the boutique winery, observing the selection, fermentation, and bottling stages. The highlight here is the chance to label your own bottle—perfect for a keepsake or gift. This hands-on element adds a layer of involvement that’s often missing from larger commercial wineries.

The Guided Tasting: A Selection of Award-Winners

The core of this experience is the tasting of five carefully selected wines. Notably, you’ll taste the IWSC 2024 Bronze Medal-winning MOONQ Nrneni 2023—a rare grape that’s almost exclusively cultivated in Armenia. Another highlight is the MUNDUS 2024 Silver Medal-winning MOONQ Coupage 2022, blending Areni, Khndoghni, and Nrneni grapes to create a harmonious wine.

Alongside these, you’ll sample MOONQ Coupage 2023, MOONQ Voskehat 2023 (white), and MOONQ Areni Rosé 2022. The tasting is guided, informative, and well-paced, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Food Pairings and Cultural Touches

Complementing the wines, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated meat and cheese platter, alongside Armenian pakhlava—akin to Middle Eastern baklava. These snacks enhance the tasting experience, balancing the wines’ flavors. To finish, you’ll sip herbal tea brewed in a vintage 19th-century Tula samovar from Artsakh, adding a traditional Armenian touch.

Why Reviewers Love It

One visitor describes the winery as “a revelation for anyone curious about contemporary Armenian winemaking,” emphasizing the craftsmanship and the small, handcrafted batches. They also appreciated the warmth of the family-run operation and the stunning views. The experience’s intimacy allows for meaningful conversations and personalized attention.

Practical Details: Duration, Cost, and Booking

This tour lasts around 2 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity. The cost of $49 per person offers good value considering the rarity of the wines, the personalized service, and the scenic setting. Most bookings are made about 27 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re eager to secure a spot.

The experience is private, meaning only your group participates, which enhances the relaxed, tailored atmosphere. Meeting points are conveniently located in Yerevan, with the tour ending back at the starting location.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those with an interest in native grape varieties and Armenian wine culture. It’s a fantastic choice for wine enthusiasts seeking unique tastings and travelers who enjoy scenic views and culturally rich experiences. The personalized aspect makes it great for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a meaningful day out in Armenia.

It’s also an excellent way to support small, family-run wineries, gaining insight into local traditions and craftsmanship. However, those with limited mobility or strict schedules should consider the 2-hour duration and scenic outdoor settings.

The Sum Up

The Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience at MOONQ WINES offers a compelling mix of authenticity, exclusivity, and stunning scenery. For just $49, you gain access to rare Armenian wines, a glimpse into the winemaking process, and the chance to label your own bottle—making it more than a typical tasting. The views of Mount Ararat add a breathtaking backdrop that elevates the entire experience.

Ideal for wine lovers, cultural explorers, and scenic seekers, this tour provides a memorable and immersive way to connect with Armenia’s rich viticultural heritage. Its intimate setting and the opportunity to taste award-winning wines from rare grapes make it a standout activity in Yerevan.

This experience is well worth the price for those wanting a deeper understanding of Armenian wine-making traditions, complemented by beautiful landscapes and genuine family hospitality.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily a wine tasting experience, so it’s best suited for adults.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the guided tasting of five wines is included in the $49 fee.

Is there a physical component to the tour?
You will explore the winery, see the winemaking process, and label a bottle—so some light walking and handling are involved.

What kind of wines will I taste?
A mix of reds, whites, and rosés, including award-winning and rare varieties like Nrneni and Areni.

Is food included?
Yes, a meat and cheese platter, Armenian pakhlava, and herbal tea are part of the experience.

Can I buy bottles to take home?
While the article doesn’t specify, labeling your own bottle suggests you may have the option to purchase or take home your labeled wine.

What is the best time to book?
Most bookings are made about 27 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures availability.

How scenic is the location?
Set in the stunning Ararat Valley with views of Mount Ararat, the setting is genuinely picturesque and enhances the tasting experience.

This comprehensive review hopes to give you all the insights needed to decide if this Armenian wine adventure is right for you. It combines exceptional wines, scenic beauty, and genuine hospitality — a memorable way to experience Armenia’s unique viticulture.