If you’re seeking an authentic, interactive way to enjoy Armenia’s burgeoning wine scene, the Bottle Your Own Local Sparkling Wine tour offered by Hovaz Wines is worth considering. This 1.5-hour experience in Dilijan blends practical wine-making skills with tasting and cultural insights, making it a charming addition to your Armenian itinerary.
We particularly appreciate the chance to cork and label your own bottle—an unforgettable keepsake—and the opportunity to learn about traditional sparkling wine methods used in Champagne. That said, it’s a short experience, so if your interest leans towards in-depth wine tours or larger group outings, this might feel a bit light. It’s ideal for those curious about Armenian wine craftsmanship or travelers who enjoy a personal, hands-on activity.
Key Points
- Hands-on experience: Bottle, cork, and label your own sparkling rosé to take home
- Educational component: Learn the traditional method of sparkling wine production from Champagne
- Local flavor: Taste a premium Armenian sparkling rosé made from Areni Noir grapes
- Cultural insight: Discover Armenia’s wine history and current development
- Small group setting: Private experience led by a knowledgeable local guide
- Cost-effective: At $21, it offers excellent value for a memorable, craft-oriented activity
An Authentic Armenian Sparkling Wine Experience
We found the Hovaz Wines experience to be a well-balanced combination of education, hands-on activity, and tasting. The setting is centrally located in Dilijan, a charming town known for its lush scenery, and the tour focuses on the traditional method used in Champagne production—a process that involves secondary fermentation in the bottle to create that delightful sparkle.
The experience begins with an introduction to how sparkling wine is made. Here, the guide explains the traditional method (méthode champenoise), which involves a secondary fermentation of the wine inside the bottle. This is quite different from the simple carbonation used elsewhere, and understanding this process gives you added appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.
What makes this tour stand out is the interactive element: you’re invited to cork and label your own bottle of sparkling rosé. The wine itself is made from local Areni Noir grapes, a variety native to Armenia, giving your bottle a distinctly regional character. After removing the lees (the yeast sediment that naturally forms during fermentation), you’ll get to cork your bottle by hand and add your own custom label. It’s a fun, tactile way to connect with the wine, and many reviews note how satisfying it is to create your own souvenir.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Dilijan.
Learning About Armenian Winemaking
Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into Armenia’s wine history and its current development. Armenia is often overlooked as a wine destination, but the country has a long-standing tradition of viticulture, with winemaking dating back thousands of years. Today, wineries like Hovaz are blending traditional techniques with modern innovation, and this tour offers a glimpse into that evolving scene.
You’ll also discover how sustainable practices are integrated into the winery’s approach, supporting wildlife conservation and environmentally responsible viticulture. This adds a layer of meaning for eco-conscious travelers, who can feel good about supporting a producer committed to sustainability.
Tasting and Pairing
After the bottle-making, it’s time for tasting. You’ll sample the Hovaz Sparkling Rosé, which is a delightfully dry and refreshing beverage, perfect for pairing with local cheese and meat boards provided during the experience. The pairing is thoughtfully curated to complement the wine’s fruity and floral notes.
Many reviewers commented on the quality of the wine—with one noting that the sparkling rosé is produced with care and using local grapes, and another describing it as “a perfect, crisp way to toast Armenia.” The tasting session is a relaxed, educational moment where you’ll learn how to properly taste and appreciate sparkling wine.
Practical Details and Value
At only $21 per person, this activity offers exceptional value. Included in the price are the guide’s expertise, the tasting of one glass of sparkling rosé, and a cheese and meat board. The ability to create your own bottle adds a memorable, personalized touch that makes the experience more than just a tasting.
The tour is private and led by Nelly, a professional local guide who speaks Armenian, English, and Russian. This multilingual aspect makes it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The duration is 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity that fits easily into a day of exploring Dilijan.
Since it’s reserve-and-pay-later, you can secure your spot without financial commitment upfront, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance—helpful for flexible travel plans. It’s wheelchair accessible, but note that smoking indoors is not permitted, maintaining a pleasant environment.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Enjoy This Tour?
This experience suits travelers who:
- Want an authentic, hands-on activity that isn’t just tasting but involves making their own wine
- Are interested in Armenia’s wine traditions and local grape varieties
- Prefer small, private groups for a more personal experience
- Enjoy pairing wine with local foods in a relaxed setting
- Are not expecting a deep, prolonged tour but rather a quick, memorable craft experience
It’s less suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, but perfect for anyone curious about wine-making or looking for a unique souvenir to take home.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
The experience begins at the Hovaz Wines Tasting Room in the heart of Dilijan, easy to find and centrally located. Upon arrival, your guide greets you and introduces the process of sparkling wine production with a clear, accessible explanation, emphasizing the traditional method used in France’s Champagne region.
Next, you’ll observe the removal of lees, which involves decanting the sediment left after fermentation. This step is crucial in ensuring a clear, sparkling final product. You’ll see the craftsmanship involved and learn how the natural fermentation process creates the wine’s bubbles.
Then comes the hands-on part: cork and label your own bottle. You’ll have the chance to choose a label design, or simply sign your name, adding a personal touch. The corking process is straightforward but satisfying—an activity that many reviewers say feels like a true craftsmanship moment.
After your bottle is sealed, the guide leads you into the tasting area. Here, you’ll enjoy a glass of sparkling rosé, a product of Armenian ingenuity that pairs well with cheeses and meats, which are supplied for the occasion. You’ll learn proper tasting techniques, such as how to evaluate aroma, acidity, and finish, adding a layer of wine appreciation that can serve you well elsewhere.
The final part of the tour involves a brief chat about Armenia’s wine scene, its heritage, and ongoing development efforts. Many visitors appreciate this cultural context, feeling it enriches the simple pleasure of drinking local wine.
Final Word: Who Should Not Miss This?
For travelers eager to add a personal touch to their Armenian journey, this activity is ideal. It offers a blend of education, craft, and taste in a relaxed environment, with the bonus of taking home a self-made sparkling wine. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy interactive experiences and want a tangible memory of their trip.
If you’re traveling with family, note that children under 18 and pregnant women are not permitted, but couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a small, intimate activity will find it charming. It doesn’t require prior wine knowledge, just curiosity and a willingness to learn—and pour.
This tour offers great value, meaningful engagement, and a chance to connect with Armenia’s winemaking traditions on a personal level. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a distinctive souvenir, this experience makes for a memorable addition to your Armenian adventures.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, the main focus is on the bottle-making and learning process. You can participate in corking and labeling without necessarily drinking the wine.
Can I buy the bottle I cork myself?
Yes, you have the option to purchase the bottle you made—a personalized keepsake of your trip.
How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, fitting nicely into a morning or afternoon activity.
Is the activity accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for diverse travelers.
What languages are spoken during the tour?
The guide speaks Armenian, English, and Russian, catering to a broad range of visitors.
Can I cancel the reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
What if I want to bring children?
Children under 18 are not permitted on this tour, primarily because of alcohol regulations.
Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is recommended.
Do I need prior wine knowledge?
Not at all—this is designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Where is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at the Hovaz Wines Tasting Room in central Dilijan, easy to find and convenient.
In the end, this experience offers a delightful mix of learning, creating, and tasting—perfect for travelers who want a personal connection to Armenia’s wine culture without a lengthy tour. It’s a chance to bottle your own sparkling wine, learn the traditional methods used in Champagne, and enjoy local flavors—all in a relaxed, intimate setting.
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