Van Ardi Winery — Boutique Winery

About

Van Ardi opened in 2013 in Sasunik, at the foot of Mt Aragats, about 40 minutes north of Yerevan. The owner, Varuzhan Muradyan, studied oenology at UC Davis and spent 20 years in the US before returning. The vineyards cover over seven hectares at about 1,050 m on volcanic soils. Grapes include Areni, Kangun, Haghtanak, Milagh, Voskehat and Syrah. Areni normally thrives only in Vayots Dzor, so growing it here is unusual. Annual output is about 40,000–50,000 bottles, with a logo showing the sun god Shivini. The visit includes the bell tower, cellars and vineyards, with a guide. The on-site restaurant is led by chef Anahit Muradyan.
What you can do there: tour the vineyard, bell tower and cellar, taste wines (including from barrel), eat at the restaurant, host private events.