Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience

If you’re looking for a truly unique taste of Armenia’s wine heritage, the Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience at MOONQ WINES offers an intimate glimpse into the country’s indigenous viticulture. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, the descriptions, reviews, and details paint a picture of something special—an authentic, small-scale look at Armenia’s rare grapes and award-winning wines.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the chance to sample wines made from Nrneni, a nearly forgotten Armenian grape, grown on less than half a hectare. Second, it’s the personal touch of visiting a family-run winery, where the passion of the winemakers shines through.

One potential consideration is the two-hour duration, which may leave some craving a longer or more in-depth session. However, for those with limited time or seeking a focused experience, this is a perfect fit.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts, lovers of authentic local traditions, and anyone eager to see a different side of Armenia’s vibrant wine scene. It’s especially appealing if you want a quiet, picturesque setting away from busy tourist spots, with spectacular views of Mount Ararat as your backdrop.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Taste wines from Armenia’s rare indigenous grapes, particularly the Nrneni varietal.
• Family-Run Atmosphere: Experience the warmth and passion of a small, family-operated winery.
• Award-Winning Wines: Sample critically acclaimed wines, including medals from the IWSC and MUNDUS competitions.
• Authentic Experience: See the winemaking process firsthand and even label a bottle yourself.
• Spectacular Setting: Enjoy the tranquil Ararat Valley views, with Mount Ararat always in sight.
• Value for Money: At $49, the tour offers a rich, personalized experience in a stunning location.

Setting the Scene: Yerevan and the Ararat Valley

The experience begins in Yerevan but quickly transports you to the peaceful landscapes of the Ararat Valley. This is a region renowned for its viticulture, where traditional Armenian grapes flourish in small, family-operated vineyards. The meeting point is conveniently located at Moonq Winery in Yerevan, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or nearby.

Once you arrive, the first thing you notice is the serenity. The winery is intimate, emphasizing quality over quantity, with the rustic charm of a family-run operation that’s been crafting wine with care. The setting offers a perfect backdrop for appreciating Armenian wines—the majestic Mount Ararat looming in the distance adds a sense of place that’s hard to match.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable yet immersive outing. You’ll start with a warm welcome, where the hosts share their family’s journey into winemaking and introduce the rare grapes they cultivate, especially the Nrneni. As it’s a private experience, your group size remains small, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Next, you’re invited to explore the boutique winery, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. This includes learning about how the grapes are selected, fermented, and bottled—see firsthand the meticulous steps taken to produce these distinctive wines.

The highlight is the guided tasting of five different wines. You’ll sample:

• MOONQ Nrneni 2023, which won a Bronze Medal at IWSC 2024
• MOONQ Coupage 2022, a blend of Areni, Khndoghni, and Nrneni grapes, earning a Silver Medal at MUNDUS 2024
• MOONQ Coupage 2023
• MOONQ Voskehat 2023, a white wine
• MOONQ Areni Rosé 2022

Throughout the tasting, your hosts explain the nuances of each wine, emphasizing how the indigenous grapes contribute to Armenia’s distinctive wine profile.

Tasting and Food Pairings

The tasting is complemented by a meat and cheese platter, along with crackers and Armenian pakhlava—a sweet, layered pastry similar to Middle Eastern baklava. These serve as ideal accompaniments, enhancing the wine flavors and giving a taste of Armenian hospitality.

You’ll also enjoy a cup of Armenian herbal tea, brewed in a 19th-century Tula samovar from Artsakh. This traditional touch adds a cozy, old-world feel to the experience.

The View and Atmosphere

Set against the lush Ararat Valley, the winery’s outdoor space offers sweeping vistas of Mount Ararat—if you’re lucky with the weather, the views are breathtaking. The peaceful surroundings make this more than just a tasting; it’s a chance to slow down and savor both the landscape and the wines.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

When we examine the value, $49 for a comprehensive, intimate tasting and behind-the-scenes look at Armenian winemaking is quite reasonable. The focus on rare grapes like Nrneni and the personalized approach add a layer of depth that larger, commercial wineries often lack.

The medal-winning wines demonstrate the quality and craftsmanship involved, making this a worthwhile stop for wine lovers. Plus, the experience’s setting offers a level of tranquility and authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

What Past Guests Say

The sole review available highlights the excellence of this winery: “Perched in Kharberd, not far from the storied slopes where Mount Ararat rises, the family-run TP winery is a revelation for anyone curious about contemporary Armenian winemaking. Their Moonq range—crafted in small, handcrafted lots—c…”

This suggests visitors leave impressed by the quality and authenticity of the wines, as well as the welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere.

Practical Details: Booking, Duration, and Logistics

Booking is straightforward, with most guests reserving about 27 days in advance. The tour includes a mobile ticket, and the meeting point is in Yerevan, though the winery itself is located in the picturesque countryside. The two-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a day without feeling rushed.

Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, adding to the comfort and personalization. There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, offering peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Armenia’s indigenous grapes and traditional winemaking. It’s perfect for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path activity that combines scenic beauty with culture.

If you’re interested in medal-winning wines and learning about small-scale Armenian viticulture, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing for travelers who enjoy family-run businesses and want a relaxing, educational outing in a beautiful setting.

The Sum Up

The Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience at MOONQ WINES offers a distinctive taste of Armenia’s wine heritage with a personal touch. From sampling award-winning wines made from rare indigenous grapes to enjoying stunning views of Mount Ararat, this tour combines authenticity, quality, and a relaxed atmosphere that few other experiences can match.

It’s a great choice for those who want more than just tasting wine—they want to understand and appreciate what makes Armenian wine unique. The intimacy, the setting, and the quality of the wines make this a memorable, worthwhile outing, especially if you’re curious about Armenia’s lesser-known viticultural treasures.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around two hours, making it a manageable and engaging outing without taking up a whole day.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste five wines, including medal-winning varieties like MOONQ Nrneni 2023 and MOONQ Coupage 2022, along with food pairings like cheese, meat, Armenian pakhlava, and herbal tea.

Can I label a bottle?
Yes, as part of the experience, you have the opportunity to label a bottle yourself, adding a fun, memorable touch.

What is the setting like?
Set in the tranquil Ararat Valley, with views of Mount Ararat, the setting is peaceful and scenic, perfect for wine tasting and relaxation.

Is there a dress code or special preparation needed?
There are no strict dress codes, but dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor views if you choose to sit outside.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

This detailed look into the Rare Grape and Wine Tasting Experience shows it’s a perfect addition for travelers wanting to dive deeper into Armenia’s wine traditions, all while enjoying breathtaking scenery and authentic hospitality.