Armenian drinks are elements of poetry. They openly carry the sun of the vineyards, the freshness of the mountain air and the warmth of Armenian hospitality. For generations, wine and cognac have been a part of every celebration, symbols of Armenian traditions. In recent years, a new trend has been developing in Yerevan bars and home gatherings. Young bartenders and enthusiasts are reinterpreting familiar flavors, mixing various alcoholic beverages with our native Armenian wines or cognacs. New, elegant, fragrant cocktails full of Armenian spirit and colors are usually created. They unite people of different generations, gathering around a glass, both lovers of traditions and those looking for something new. Every sip opens a new story, sometimes reminiscent of the aroma of apricots from childhood, sometimes the current turmoil. These cocktails show that Armenian flavors can not only be preserved, but also transformed into a modern art, while remaining just as warm and familiar. If you’ve ever wondered how to add an Armenian touch to your evenings, this is perhaps one of the best modern ways.
The New Wave of Armenian Drinks
Armenia’s heritage in winemaking and brandy production is something to be proud of. Every bottle of Voskehat wine carries the story of centuries-old sun-kissed vineyards, while every drop of Ararat brandy tells the story of oak barrels and patient craftsmanship. Now, these two legends meet in creative ways. Bartenders often mix wine and brandy, adding nuances of local fruits, herbs or honey. This is a new page in the history of Armenian drinks - a page where old traditions meet a younger, more curious generation that is not afraid to experiment.
Here are some recipes for Armenian cocktails.
Voskehat Sparkling Wine: Light, Bright, and Golden
Ingredients: Voskehat White Wine, Apricot Syrup, Sparkling Water, Lemon Peel Imagine a summer afternoon in Dilijan, with sunshine on the table, lovely conversations and laughter in the air. This is what Voskehat Sparkling Wine tastes like. This light cocktail is simple but full of charm. Stir a chilled glass of Voskehat with a spoonful of apricot syrup, add a little soda for interest, and finish with a lemon peel. Voskehat grapes, often called the “golden berry,” give this drink a fresh, slightly citrusy flavor. It’s elegant, easy, and perfect for sharing, just like good stories.
Golden Manhattan with Armenian spirit
Ingredients: 5 or 7-year-old Ararat brandy, sweet vermouth (martini), honey, Angostura bitters.
Take the classic Manhattan, give it an Armenian heart, and you have this drink. Replace the whiskey with Ararat brandy, add sweet vermouth, a drop of mountain honey and gently stir over ice. Serve it in a chilled glass with a small piece of orange peel.
The honey smooths the edges of the brandy. It is rich, elegant, warm and a little nostalgic.
The fusion of Voskehat wine and brandy — the perfect contrast
Ingredients: equal parts Voskehat wine and Ararat brandy, strawberry syrup, ice. This is about secrecy: the freshness of Voskehat meets the boldness of Ararat. Add a little turnip syrup, shake lightly with ice and strain into a glass. The result is a beautiful floral, velvety texture, like a conversation between strength and softness. This is a drink that is unique, but at the same time simple.
How to enjoy Armenian drinks at home
Good drinks deserve good company and atmosphere. Armenian cocktails go perfectly with cheese, nuts or light seafood. Ararat cognac finds harmony with dark chocolate, dried apricots or even a quiet book after dinner. And if you want to drink wine with your friends, but you don’t want to drink, don’t worry - you can now order wine online in Yerevan and enjoy it in the company of loved ones and friends.
It’s just as simple and mixed with Voskehat wine Ararat cognac is not only a cocktail, but a fusion of generations. This is the combined taste of old and new, which comes together in one glass.
Choose from the local cocktail recipes next time. Let the glass tell you a golden, fragrant, sunny and Armenian story of yours.
All that remains is to raise our glasses and say "Salyut", or as we say, "Kenats'd". 🥂
