Wine tour: 4 wine factories & wineries in one day

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Imagine spending a day exploring some of Armenia’s finest wineries, tasting exceptional wines, and learning about the country’s ancient wine-making traditions—all in one comfortably-paced journey. That’s precisely what this private wine tour offers: a carefully curated visit to four different wineries in the Vayots Dzor Province, with a focus on authenticity, comfort, and good value.

We like how this tour balances personalized service with a well-structured itinerary, giving travelers a chance to see diverse aspects of Armenia’s wine culture. Plus, the small-group format (up to six people) ensures a more intimate experience—perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone curious about Armenia’s storied viticulture.

One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include the cost of winery tickets, so budget for those separately. This tour is best suited for those who love wine, enjoy scenic drives, and want a relaxed, informative day rather than a rushed sampling session.

Key Points

  • Authentic Armenian wines — taste a variety of white, red, and homemade wines in different settings.
  • Educational and personal experience—guided tours of four unique wineries with insightful stories.
  • Comfortable transportation—luxury Mercedes vehicle with amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and photo services.
  • Flexible and private—perfect for small groups, with a customizable, intimate atmosphere.
  • Beautiful scenery—views of Mount Ararat and lush vineyard landscapes enhance the experience.
  • Good value—a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and expert guidance for $330 per group.
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Armenia Wine Tour

Introduction to the Tour

We’ll start with a quick note: this private wine tour is a fantastic way to spend a day in Armenia’s Vayots Dzor region, especially if you’re a fan of local wines or eager to see how Armenian wine is made firsthand. As the tour is led by Gregory, a guide with evident passion for the subject, you can expect a friendly, engaging experience that doesn’t feel rushed.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit four different wineries—each with its own character and history. Second, the comfort and convenience of traveling in a modern Mercedes, coupled with thoughtful touches like Wi-Fi, snacks, and a photographer capturing your journey.

A small potential drawback? The tour involves some driving and walking through various production sites, which might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues. Still, the overall pace is relaxed and accommodating.

This experience matches best with travelers who crave authentic wine tasting combined with a cultural journey, and who prefer a private, comfortable setting over large group tours.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

1. Starting Point: Yerevan Pickup

The day kicks off at 10:00 am, with hotel pickup in Yerevan. From there, your driver, Gregory, will whisk you away to the Ararat Valley, famous for its fertile land and historic vineyards. The journey sets the tone with scenic views of Mount Ararat, a backdrop that’s both breathtaking and symbolic of Armenia’s long-standing wine heritage.

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2. Tushpa Wine Cellar: A Modern Gem

The first stop is the Tushpa wine factory, located on 6 hectares of grape fields. Founded by Mihran Manasserian in the 1990s, Tushpa is a symbol of Armenia’s post-Soviet wine renaissance. The founder, a seasoned wine professional, built this factory from scratch, and today its products are exported to Russia and the USA.

What we love about Tushpa is the blend of tradition and modernity. You’ll get a tour of the production plant, which highlights innovative techniques alongside age-old methods. The tasting includes wines made from the Haghtanak variety, a local favorite. The fact that even the Pope has tasted Tushpa wine and blessed it adds a layer of prestige.

Expect to spend about an hour here, with plenty of opportunities for photos, especially with the stunning backdrop of Mount Ararat in the distance.

3. Areni Village: The Heart of Armenian Winemaking

Next, you head to Areni, often called Armenia’s wine-making capital. The village and its surrounding areas have been producing wine for centuries—an authentic place to learn about traditional methods.

At the entrance, you’ll find two wineries that welcome visitors for tours and tastings. During October, the village hosts its famous wine festival, a lively event drawing producers from across Armenia.

The tour here includes a visit to the vineyards and a tasting of some of the best local varieties. You’ll learn that the region is famous for the Areni grape, recognized worldwide as one of the finest indigenous Armenian varieties.

4. Momik Winery: A Family Legacy

The highlight of this part of the trip is the Momik winery, named after the legendary Armenian sculptor. Run by Nver Ghazaryan’s family, this winery has been making wine from the Areni grape for 40 years. Their products have won awards and are celebrated for their quality.

The tour offers a glimpse into vineyard cultivation and wine production, followed by a tasting of their acclaimed wines. Travelers often comment on the high quality of the wines and the stories shared by the guides about the family’s history.

5. Old Bridge Winery: The Final Stop

Finally, you visit the Old Bridge winery near Yeghegnadzor, founded in 1998 by the Khalatyan family. Located on the banks of the Arpa River, it’s a picturesque spot with a 13th-century bridge nearby, giving the winery its name.

You’ll get a tour of the facilities, sample a variety of Armenian wines, and enjoy the tranquil setting. Many reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and memorable photo opportunities here.

Return to Yerevan

After a full day, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel, bringing with you not only wine but also a deeper understanding of Armenia’s rich winemaking tradition.

The Experience and Service

This tour’s strength is its personalized approach. The guide Gregory receives high praise for his knowledge and friendliness, making each stop both educational and engaging. Travelers particularly appreciate the small group size, which fosters a relaxed atmosphere and more meaningful conversations.

Transportation is top-notch, with a luxurious, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, snacks, and even a photo service that captures your moments at each stop. Every detail shows a commitment to comfort and convenience, making the 7-hour journey feel more like a special outing than just a tour.

The included treats—coffee, tea, candies—add a nice touch, and the driver’s professionalism is consistently noted as a highlight in reviews.

Analyzing the Value

At $330 for a group up to six, the price might seem steep at first glance, but considering the all-inclusive transportation, guide service, and multiple winery visits, it offers substantial value. The tasting experiences are not included in the price, but given the quality and variety of wines you’ll sample, they are likely to be worth the extra expense.

A key point from reviews is that the tour exceeded expectations in terms of personal touches and authentic experiences. Travelers found the trips to be well-paced and full of interesting stories, making it more than just a tasting—the educational element enhances the value.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive, private wine experience that combines scenic views, cultural insights, and quality wines, all in a comfortable setting.

The Sum Up

This Armenia wine tour offers a rare chance to explore four distinct wineries with a knowledgeable guide, in a private and relaxed environment. The combination of scenic landscapes, high-quality wines, and engaging storytelling makes it ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable day in Armenia.

For travelers who enjoy personalized service, authentic experiences, and good value, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer to avoid large groups and want a flexible, intimate journey into Armenia’s wine heritage.

The focus on quality, comfort, and authenticity ensures you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Armenia’s wine-making culture—and maybe a few bottles to bring home.

FAQ

How many wineries will I visit?
You will visit four wineries: Tushpa, two wineries in Areni, and Old Bridge Winery.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, guide service, Wi-Fi, snacks, coffee/tea, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. Wine tasting costs are separate.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:00 am.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 years old are not recommended, and kids under 16 must remove shoes in the vehicle. It’s better suited for guests over 10 years old.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothing are advised, along with a camera for photos. The tour provides umbrellas, blankets, and chargers.

Are the wines tasted locally Armenian wines?
Yes, you’ll sample a variety of Armenian wines, including the famous Areni grape.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is private, with a maximum of 6 people, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I customize the tour?
It’s a private experience, so you can discuss your preferences with Gregory beforehand.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but local snacks are provided during the day.

This Armenia wine tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic wine tasting, making it a perfect choice for those wanting a full, immersive experience in Armenia’s viticultural heartland. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious about Armenia’s ancient traditions, this tour promises a memorable day of discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: