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ARMENIAN STAPLE

Areni, Pinot Noir

Vayots Dzor, Armenia
Heritage

Areni is not just a grape, it is the beginning of wine itself. Grown in the highlands of southern Armenia, Areni Noir is believed to be one of the oldest cultivated varieties on earth, its roots tracing back over 6,100 years to the Vayots Dzor region where the world's earliest known winery was unearthed inside the Areni-1 cave. Genetic research has since confirmed what Armenian winemakers always knew: Areni is a direct ancestor of Pinot Noir, the grape that would go on to define Burgundy and captivate the world. To drink Areni is to drink from the original vine - a living thread connecting the modern glass to the very birth of winemaking civilization.

What it feels like

Dry and medium-bodied - not too light, not too heavy. You'll taste dark cherry and a hint of baking spice, with tannins that are soft enough that you barely notice them. It finishes clean with a faint mineral note that's unique to this grape. Overall, it's an elegant, easygoing red that never feels like it's asking too much of you.

Flavor notes
Dark Cherry Dried Rose Volcanic Mineral Silky Tannin Baking Spice Clean Finish
Perfect pairings
Grilled lamb chops on a white plate with rosemary and a side dish.

Herb-crusted rack of lamb

The wine's earthy minerality and silky tannins are a natural counterpart to the richness of lamb β€” a pairing that has existed in Armenia for thousands of years.

Mushroom risotto

The umami depth of wild mushrooms amplifies Areni's earthy, mineral backbone, while the wine's acidity cuts cleanly through the cream.
Round cheese on a wooden board with grapes and bread in the background

Aged pecorino or manchego

Firm, salty cheeses bring out the wine's subtle fruit and spice, creating a back-and-forth that rewards slow sipping.

Pasta with slow-braised ragu

The wine's structure holds up beautifully against a long-cooked meat sauce β€” this is a Sunday dinner bottle.
Man pouring red wine into a glass on a wooden table with a dark background
Notes from the boss

"This is the wine that started everything for me. The first time I tasted Areni, I stopped and said β€” this is what wine is supposed to taste like. Clean, honest, and completely unforgettable."

Michael Franzese
Founder, Franzese Wine

The Birthplace of Wine

From Ancient Soil To Your Table

Long before the vineyards of France and Italy, long before the cellars of Napa Valley, there was Armenia β€” the cradle of winemaking. In 2011, archaeologists discovered the world's oldest known winery in the Areni-1 cave complex, dating back over 6,200 years.

This is not just wine. This is liquid heritage β€” a direct connection to the very origins of viticulture.

6,200+

Years of Winemaking

100%

Quality Guaranteed

50k+

Happy Customers

Endorsed by acclaimed chefs, wine experts, and culinary professionals around the world

Wolfgang Puck

Wolfgang Puck

Legendary culinary innovator and world-renowned chef.

Mario Lopez

Mario Lopez

Actor, TV personality and host of Access Hollywood

Andrew Gruel

Andrew Gruel

Chef, restaurateur, and TV personality

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Frequently Asked Questions