Discover the exquisite charm of **Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Armenian Brandy**, a luxurious tribute to Armenia's rich heritage and craftsmanship. This premium brandy, produced by the renowned Yerevan Brandy Company, reflects the elegance of tradition with 15 years of meticulous aging in Caucasian oak barrels. Crafted from indigenous Armenian grape varieties, its complex flavor profile delights with notes of dried fruits, vanilla, chocolate, and warming spices, balanced by a subtle tartness and a smooth, lingering finish. With its deep mahogany hue and harmony of aromas, Ararat Vaspurakan is perfect for connoisseurs seeking sophistication in every sip. Ideal for sipping neat or elevating special occasions, it embodies the essence of Armenian excellence.
Process & Profile
Ararat Vaspurakan undergoes a meticulous production process that starts with exceptional Armenian grape varietals from the Ararat Valley, including Voskehat and Garan Dmak. The brandy is double-distilled to perfection and aged for 15 years in specially crafted Caucasian oak barrels. These barrels, known for their unique properties, impart deep flavors and a velvety smoothness. The result is a spirit with a rich, amber hue and a complex blend of dried fruit, oak, and spice.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Deep amber with a radiant glow.
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Nose: Enticing aromas of dried fruits, vanilla, subtle oak, and a hint of spice.
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Palate: Luxuriously smooth with flavors of dried fruits, chocolate, vanilla, oak, and a touch of sweetness.
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Finish: Long and elegant with a refined, warming aftertaste.
What Makes It Special
Ararat Vaspurakan is not just a brandy—it's a celebration of Armenian history and craftsmanship. Its 15-year aging process in handcrafted Caucasian oak barrels creates a depth of flavor unmatched by many spirits. The use of endemic grape varieties ensures its authenticity, while the time-honored double distillation method highlights the utmost quality. With a legacy tied to the historic homeland of Vaspurakan, this brandy truly embodies the spirit of Armenia.
How to Enjoy
The versatility of Ararat Vaspurakan ensures it can be enjoyed in multiple ways:
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Neat: Best savored in a tulip-shaped glass at room temperature to fully appreciate its depth of flavor and aroma. Warm the glass slightly in your hands to enhance the bouquet.
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On the Rocks: Add a couple of ice cubes for a slightly chilled, smoother experience.
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Cocktails: Use it as a base for premium cocktails, such as an Armenian Old Fashioned or The Armenian Connection. The brandy's rich, fruity, and spiced notes make it an outstanding mixology ingredient.
Why Choose Ararat Vaspurakan
Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Armenian Brandy is ideal for connoisseurs seeking a refined spirit with a historical touch. Whether celebrating special moments, gifting to a discerning friend, or savoring a quiet evening of indulgence, this brandy offers an unparalleled drinking experience. Its exquisite craftsmanship and deep-rooted heritage make it a centerpiece in any fine spirits collection.
Discover the essence of Armenia and elevate your drinking rituals with Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Armenian Brandy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy?
Ararat Vaspurakan Brandy is produced in Armenia by the Yerevan Brandy Company, a historic brandy producer with roots dating back to 1887. The name "Vaspurakan" translates to "noble country," and it pays tribute to a medieval Armenian principality. This brandy is crafted using traditional Armenian methods and exclusively local grape varieties.
What is unique about the aging process of Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy?
The brandy is aged for 15 years in handcrafted Caucasian oak barrels, which are made from oak trees over 70 years old. This process imparts distinctive notes of dried fruits, spices, chocolate, and vanilla, giving the brandy its rich and complex flavor profile.
What is the flavor profile of Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy?
This premium brandy features rich notes of dried fruits, vanilla, and oak, complemented by hints of spice and chocolate. It has a smooth, velvety texture and a lingering, elegant finish with a touch of sweetness and balanced acidity.
How is Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy made?
The brandy is produced by double distilling wine made from endemic Armenian grape varieties. Only the "heart" of the distillation—the purest fraction—is used. The spirit is then aged for 15 years in Armenian oak barrels to develop its unique flavors and aromas.
How should Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy be served?
For the best experience, serve the brandy at room temperature (18-22°C) in a tulip glass to concentrate its aromas. Sipping it neat allows you to fully appreciate its rich flavors and intricate notes. It can also pair well with dark chocolate, dried fruits, nuts, or soft cheeses.
What makes Armenian brandy different from other brandies?
Armenian brandy stands out for its use of indigenous grape varieties grown in the unique Ararat Valley climate and its aging process in Caucasian oak barrels. The double distillation process preserves the distinct flavors and aromas of the grapes, resulting in a smooth, complex, and refined spirit.
Is Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy suitable for cocktails?
While it is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks due to its rich and intricate profile, it can also be used as a base for premium, luxury cocktails that highlight its exceptional flavors.
How does Ararat Vaspurakan compare to French Cognac?
Both Armenian brandy and French cognac undergo similar production techniques, including double distillation and oak aging. However, Armenian brandy uses endemic grape varieties and Caucasian oak barrels, which provide unique flavor characteristics like dried fruits, spices, and vanilla, distinguishing it from cognac.
What is the history of the Yerevan Brandy Company?
The Yerevan Brandy Company, producer of the Ararat Vaspurakan Brandy, was founded in 1887. It gained fame after its brandy won a Grand Prix at the 1900 Universal Exhibition in Paris. Today, it remains one of the most renowned producers of Armenian brandy, combining centuries-old tradition with modern craftsmanship.
Can I gift Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy for special occasions?
Yes, the exquisite taste, luxurious texture, and elegant packaging of Ararat Vaspurakan 15 Year Brandy make it a perfect choice for gifting on special occasions, celebrations, or as a treat for connoisseurs of fine spirits.