Athens: Armenian Brandy Tasting with Chocolate

Imagine spending less than an hour savoring exquisite Armenian brandies paired with decadent chocolates, right in the heart of Athens. This tasting experience at CRU Tasting Room offers a unique blend of culture, history, and flavor—perfect for those curious about spirits beyond the usual Greek wine or ouzo. It’s a small, intimate session that feels more like a refined conversation than a formal tour, making it an appealing choice for visitors craving something different and memorable.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the three distinct ages of Armenian brandy—seven, ten, and fifteen years old—give you a tasting journey through time, revealing how flavor develops with age. Second, the pairing with chocolates enhances each sip beautifully, turning the tasting into a sensory delight. However, a possible downside is that at just 45 minutes, this is a quick snapshot—not suitable if you’re looking for a deep dive into Armenian culture or distillation techniques. Still, for those with tight schedules or just wanting a refined introduction to Armenian spirits, this tour hits the spot.

This experience is ideal for adventurous palates, lovers of spirits and chocolates, or travelers seeking a taste of Armenian heritage without leaving Athens. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious, you’ll appreciate the authenticity and quality of the brandies, as well as the friendly, knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Armenian brandies made from indigenous grapes like Voskehat and Miskhali
• Pairing with chocolates that complement and enhance the flavors
• Short, 45-minute format perfect for a quick but memorable tasting
• Produced in Armenia with historical significance, enjoyed by USSR officials and Winston Churchill
• Affordable at $35.01, offering a high-quality experience for the price
• Includes filtered water and chocolates for a complete tasting experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Armenian Brandy in Athens

While Greece is famous for its wines and spirits, this tasting session introduces a different world—Armenian brandy, known locally as ArArAt. It’s a chance to explore a spirit with a storied past, made from grapes like Voskehat and Chilar, which are indigenous to Armenia. This is not only about drinking; it’s about understanding a craft that was appreciated by notable figures and enjoyed by officials of the USSR, as well as Winston Churchill.

The experience is held at the CRU Tasting Room, a cozy spot that emphasizes quality over quantity. It’s ideal for those looking for an authentic, educational, and flavorful interlude in their Athens itinerary. You’ll find that the session is conducted in both Greek and English, catering to international visitors.

What we love about this tasting: the variety of ages of brandy on offer, providing insights into how aging influences flavor, and the pairing with chocolates, which elevates the tasting to a delightful, multi-layered experience. Keep in mind, though, that the session’s brevity might leave some craving more in-depth knowledge about Armenian distillation techniques.

What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The Setting and Duration

The entire experience runs for about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick stop or a relaxed break between sightseeing. You’ll be guided in English (and Greek), ensuring you understand the nuances and history of each brandy. The small group size guarantees personal attention and an intimate atmosphere.

The Brandies: A Spectrum of Ages

You’ll sample three Armenian brandies—7, 10, and 15 years old—each with its own character. The younger 7-year-old offers a Bitter Chocolate or Orange pairing, showcasing lively, fresh flavors. The 10-year-old is paired with Hazelnut Chocolate, providing richer, nuttier notes. The 15-year-old, the most mature, is matched with Tiramisu or Caramel Chocolate, delivering complex, mellow notes that highlight the aging process.

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The Historical Context

These brandies are made from grapes like Voskehat, Miskhali, Chilar, and Garan Dmak—indigenous to Armenia. The production predates the hotel of the Yerevan Brandy Company in 1877, giving it a genuine historical weight. You might find it interesting that ArArAt is a brand produced ten years before 1877, carrying a legacy of craftsmanship that’s nearly a century older than the current distillery.

The Tasting Experience

Expect a relaxed yet informative session. You’ll be offered filtered water to cleanse your palate between tastings and chocolates to pair with each brandy. This pairing enhances the flavor profiles, creating a more memorable experience. Reviews mention that the chocolates are carefully selected, matching the spirits well—”The chocolates really elevate the tasting,” one participant noted.

Cost and Value

Priced at $35.01 per person, this experience offers significant value. For less than the cost of a good dinner, you get to taste and learn about a rare spirit, enjoy expert guidance, and indulge in the pairing. The inclusion of three excellent Armenian brandies makes it a more affordable option than many similar tastings in larger cities or specialty shops.

Authenticity and Quality

This tour boasts high ratings (around 4.8), which is no surprise given the quality of the spirits and the knowledgeable guides. Past reviews highlight the excellent wine selection and how the host’s passion adds to the experience. Several mention how the history of Armenian brandy—used by notable figures—amplifies the tasting.

The fact that the brandies are made from indigenous grapes and spring water means you’re tasting something truly authentic, not just a commercial spirit. This adds an extra layer of appreciation, especially for spirits aficionados.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Reserve early: The tasting runs at specific times, and spots can fill up fast.
• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and get comfortable.
• No hotel pickup is included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• The experience is not suitable for those under 21.
• If you’re on a tight schedule, note the 45-minute duration—it’s just enough to whet your appetite for Armenian spirits.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.
• Consider pairing this experience with other Athens tours—such as a visit to the Acropolis or a food tour—to balance cultural exploration with sensory indulgence.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tasting is a fantastic choice if you’re interested in spirits with a story and appreciate the craftsmanship behind aged alcohol. It suits travelers who enjoy chocolate pairings and want a more refined, less touristy activity. It’s perfect for those seeking a short, high-quality culture that adds a different dimension to your Athens visit. If you’re a fan of history, heritage, and authentic flavors, you’ll find this experience both charming and educational.

It’s also a great option for couples or small groups looking for an intimate, relaxed experience that’s both fun and informative. Not suitable for children or those who prefer a longer, more detailed tour, but ideal for anyone wanting a quick yet meaningful taste of Armenian tradition.

The Sum Up

This Armenian brandy tasting in Athens offers a rare glimpse into a spirit that’s steeped in history and craftsmanship. For a modest price, you gain access to three beautifully aged brandies, each paired thoughtfully with chocolates to bring out their best qualities. The experience’s compact format makes it perfect for a quick cultural fix or an indulgent break during your sightseeing day.

What makes it especially valuable is the authenticity—made from Armenian indigenous grapes and spring water—and the stories behind each sip. The knowledgeable guides make you feel welcome and enrich the tasting with insights that deepen your appreciation. Even if you’re not a seasoned spirits lover, the approachability and quality of the product make it worth trying.

In the end, this activity is ideal for curious travelers eager to explore beyond typical Greek fare. It’s a delightful way to appreciate Armenian heritage, indulge your senses, and perhaps discover a new favorite spirit—without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The tasting is designed to be accessible, with clear guidance and explanations. It’s a great way to start exploring spirits beyond the usual options.

How long does the tasting last?
The entire session runs for about 45 minutes, making it a perfect short activity in a busy sightseeing day.

Are the spirits high quality?
Yes. The Armenian brandies offered are well-regarded and enjoyed by notable figures in history. Past reviews praise the excellent wine selection and the authentic production methods.

Is this activity conducted in English?
Yes, the guides speak both Greek and English, so language should not be a barrier.

What’s included in the price?
You get to taste three brandies, along with filtered water and chocolates to enhance the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for groups or couples?
Yes, it’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, engaging activity.

To sum it up, the Armenian Brandy Tasting with Chocolate in Athens offers a refined, authentic experience packed with history, flavor, and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re a spirits lover or simply looking to add a unique activity to your trip, this tasting promises a memorable moment with high value for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: