Old Bridge Winery

History and Heritage

Nestled along Yerevanyan Highway in Yeghegnadzor, Vayots Dzor province, Old Bridge Winery emerged in 1998 as a trailblazing family venture by Armen and Ashkhen Khalatyan. This small boutique operation pioneered world-class wines from Armenia's ancient viticultural heartland, setting benchmarks for quality with rigorous standards that see subpar vintages discarded. The winery honors millennia-old winemaking traditions while embracing modern techniques, producing limited quantities of exceptional reds, whites, and spirits.

Wine Production and Varietals

Old Bridge crafts its wines exclusively from local Armenian grapes, primarily Areni for robust dry reds, Khoranot (also known as Kahet) for depth, and Voskehat for elegant whites. All wines mature for two years in rare Karabakh oak barrels, imparting unique flavors even to the whites. Standouts include award-winning Areni Reserves like the 2012 vintage, which have garnered gold medals at international competitions such as Mundus Vini. A potent 63% ABV Grappa, available in wood-matured and clear editions, rounds out the portfolio. Production remains small-scale, ensuring exclusivity.

Visitor Experiences and Tastings

Though not open daily to walk-ins, the winery warmly hosts pre-arranged visitors for personalized tours led by owner Armen himself. Tastings feature meze platters of local cheeses, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and regional specialties like red bean and walnut soup. The adjacent restaurant offers set menus pairing dishes—grilled meats, fowl, or fish—with perfectly tempered Old Bridge wines. Scenic hillside views enhance al fresco meals, ideal for savoring Armenia's lush greens in spring or autumn hues.

Accommodations and Amenities

Complementing its vinous pursuits, Old Bridge operates a charming B&B with city views, seasonal outdoor pool, garden, shared lounge, and terrace. Guests relish home-cooked organic meals from local ingredients. The property serves as a perfect base for exploring Vayots Dzor’s trails, waterfalls, and nearby wineries like Maran, with easy highway access facilitating day trips from Yerevan.

Surroundings and Practicalities

Located 123 km southeast of Yerevan in Armenia’s wine-rich Vayots Dzor, the winery basks in a continental climate favoring viticulture—wildflower explosions in spring, balmy summers, and colorful autumns. Public minibuses from Yerevan’s Gortsaranayin station reach Yeghegnadzor in about 3 hours for AMD1,000-1,200, with taxis covering the final stretch. Advance bookings ensure seamless visits to this gem of Armenian hospitality.