Discovering Armenia’s Wine Renaissance: A Winemaker’s Journey

You have to hear about Zorik Gharibian and his wines! He’s reviving Armenia’s ancient grape varieties with passion and tradition. You’ll love it!

The Unexpected Journey of an Armenian Winemaker

When you think of pioneering winemakers, Zorik Gharibian might not be the first name that comes to mind. Yet, this passionate expert has become a beacon of hope for Armenia’s wine industry, which is experiencing a remarkable revival. After leaving behind a successful career in fashion in Italy, Zorik took a leap of faith and returned to his ancestral homeland to help revive its ancient winemaking traditions. It’s a story that resonates deeply with anyone who believes in following their passion.

Gharibian founded Zorah Wines with the vision of showcasing Armenia’s unique grape varieties. With archaeological evidence suggesting that winemaking in Armenia dates back to 4000 BC, he felt a profound responsibility to honor this legacy by focusing on autochthonous varieties like Areni and Voskehat. As he puts it, "These are our heritage; they are also really good grapes." His commitment is evident not just in his words but also in the quality of the wines produced.

A Renaissance Amidst Tragedy

Despite the backdrop of political turmoil and personal loss due to recent conflicts, Zorik sees the current decade as a renaissance for Armenian wine. The Soviets had previously stifled local winemaking traditions by promoting brandy production over wines, but since gaining independence, Armenia has been able to start anew. With only about 80 wineries currently operating compared to almost 2,400 in neighboring Georgia, there’s an opportunity for growth—an opportunity Zorik fully embraces.

As I sat down with him during a tasting event featuring his new creations—two limited edition wines called Heritage—his enthusiasm was contagious. These wines are crafted from nearly extinct heirloom varieties such as Sireni and Ararati for reds or Voskehat blended with Yeraz for whites. Each sip tells the story of Armenia’s rich viticultural past while navigating present challenges.

Crafting Wines That Speak Volumes

What truly sets Gharibian apart is his innovative approach to winemaking using traditional methods like amphorae (karas). By burying two-thirds of these clay vessels underground for temperature control while leaving a third exposed, he ensures that the amphora enhances rather than overwhelms the wine’s natural characteristics.

His flagship wines—Karasi (100% Areni) and Voski (a blend)—have already garnered cult status among enthusiasts for their purity and expression of terroir. But now he aims higher with Heritage, an initiative that further emphasizes Armenia’s native grape varieties. The Sireni 2019 stands out with its smooth flavors of dark cassis and tobacco, while Chilar 2021 delights with apricot notes on a long palate.

The Future Looks Bright

As Gharibian reflects on his journey over nearly two decades, it becomes clear that his dedication is not just about making excellent wine; it’s about telling a story—a story of survival, heritage, and hope. He acknowledges that every bottle produced represents countless hours of labor and unwavering commitment.

"It’s time for us to work together as an industry," he says confidently, noting how far they’ve come despite obstacles like loss from conflict or market competition from other countries. Zorah Wines isn’t just reviving flavors; it’s reviving dreams.

FAQs about Armenian Winemaking

What makes Armenian wines unique?

Armenian wines are distinguished by their use of ancient grape varieties that have been cultivated for thousands of years. They often exhibit unique flavor profiles reflecting the region’s diverse terroir.

How can I try Zorah Wines?

Zorah Wines can be found at select retailers or through online wine shops specializing in artisanal producers. Keep an eye out for their Heritage collection!

Why are amphorae used in winemaking?

Amphorae allow for micro-oxygenation while preventing too much wood influence on the wine’s flavor profile. They help maintain the purity and expression of the grape itself.

Photo by Ani Adigyozalyan on Unsplash