Armenian brandy is not just a drink։ it is an experience that begins with the first drop of brandy in the glass and ends with an indescribable warmth that lingers on your lips. If you have ever wanted to know how to taste Armenian brandy like an expert, then this guide is for you. We will cover the basics of aroma and flavor, the tried-and-tested rules of brandy tasting, give tips on how to fully enjoy brandy, and, of course, discuss some brandy pairings.
1. Create the right conditions for enjoying brandy
Before tasting your brandy, create the ideal environment to awaken your senses. Choose a beautiful tulip-shaped glass with a tapered rim to concentrate the aroma at the top. Serve slightly below room temperature, around 18–20 °C. Hold the glass gently in your hand so that it warms up enough to gradually open up the flavor profile and is ready for tasting.
2. Start with the nose.
Armenian brandy is the first to introduce itself by aroma. Hold the glass to your nose and take a slow breath. You’ll likely notice light top notes of apricot jam, honey, or vanilla. Then, carefully swirl the glass and bring it closer to your nose for a deeper sniff. Now, richer aromas emerge, with notes of oak, toasted nuts, chocolate, and dried fruit. This second aroma is a testament to the barrel aging of the drink and all the skill that went into making it.
3. Taste Like a Pro: Brandy Tasting Rules
Now comes the most exciting part: the tasting. Let’s understand the basic rules of brandy tasting, which are the same for Armenian brandy. Drink moderately. Take your time with each sip, feel how it gently spreads on your tongue. Try to pay attention to the texture. Is it silky, creamy, almost velvety, or maybe you feel a pleasant warmth that reminds you it’s a true spirit? After swallowing, exhale gently through your nose to catch the last notes of the taste. It is this gentle nasal exhale (retro-olfaction) that makes the tasting of brandy so special for those who truly understand this business. Pay attention to how long the warmth remains in the mouth and what flavors remain after each sip. The best Armenian brandies leave a delicate, sunny sweetness, bathed in other flavor nuances.
4. How to enjoy brandy in the right mood
Enjoying brandy depends not only on the technique, but also on your mood and your own feelings. It changes your feelings completely. Drinking cognac means not being quick, spending it in peace, quiet, and sometimes even in contemplation. It would be right to enjoy it in a friendly atmosphere with a quiet conversation, a sunset view, or by the fireplace.
5. Food pairings
Cognac goes very well with various foods: cheese, dark chocolate, and dried fruits. You can try young cognac with honey cookies or lightly spiced desserts. Medium-aged cognacs go perfectly with dried apricots, walnuts, or Chechil cheese, emphasizing the already fruity and nutty aroma of the drink. Older cognacs are easily combined with a variety of cheeses, which provides a taste balance. Do not forget to emphasize that aged cognacs pair beautifully with dark chocolate and cigars.
Although brandy is an integral part of Armenian culture and tradition, there is no need to follow strict rituals to enjoy it. Instead, simply take a minute, discover the nuances of the brandy and appreciate each of them. Aroma, texture, and aftertaste - each has its own meaning and significance.
The next time you pour a glass of brandy, take a moment to examine it: smell, taste, contemplate, and you will understand why Armenian brandy is considered one of the best in the world
