Manukyan Brandy Factory: A Taste of Armenian Tradition

The Manukyan Brandy Factory, founded in 2015, represents a new chapter in Armenia's long and storied winemaking tradition. Located in Balahovit, near Yerevan, the factory is a testament to the vision of its founder, Melik Manukyan, who sought to create exceptional wines and brandies that reflect the unique terroir of the Armenian Highlands.The factory boasts state-of-the-art fermentation units, ancient winemaking techniques, and a distinctive brandy spirit distillation machine. Visitors can witness the entire production process, from grape to bottle, and learn about the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each product. The vineyards, located in the Vayots Dzor district and the Ararat Valley, cultivate a variety of grape types, including native Armenian and European selections such as Areni Noir, Voskeat, Kangun, Cot Malbec, Haghtanak, Aligote, and Cabernet Franc.The factory also features unique wine cellars, including one carved 8 meters deep into the heart of a hill, providing optimal conditions for aging wines and brandies. These cellars utilize oak barrels sourced from Armenia, France, and the USA, which impart remarkable flavors such as vanilla, toast, spice, coconut, cedar, butter, and smoke.Visitors can take a tour of the facility, explore the vineyards, and sample a selection of the factory's wines and brandies. The tour also includes the Anamor Fortress and the option to visit the Saranist glass container factory to learn about the glass production process. The Manukyan Brandy Factory offers a comprehensive and immersive experience for anyone interested in the art of Armenian winemaking and brandy production.