Freddy R. Troya

9.1

Armas Estate – Uru Uu Karmrahyut 2015
Aragatsotn Province, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
Made from 100% Karmrahyut, an indigenous Armenian tenturier grape (red pulp as well as skin), this bottling from Armas Estate shows just how approachable and crowd-pleasing ancient varietals can be when crafted with precision.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe cherry, plum, and pomegranate notes mingle with subtle floral tones and earthy undertones. A touch of spice and soft herbs lift the nose, while the palate is juicy, silky, and surprisingly elegant for such a deeply pigmented grape.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with rounded tannins, approachable acidity, and a smooth finish that makes this red both distinctive and easy to love.

Winemaking Notes
Armas Estate, founded by the Armas family, is dedicated to reviving Armenia’s indigenous grapes through modern yet respectful techniques. Karmrahyut—rare outside Armenia—offers naturally high pigment and structure, but here it’s crafted for charm as much as power.

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with lamb kebabs, roasted vegetables, dolma, and aged Armenian cheeses.

Verdict
A true expression of Armenian heritage made modern, this 2015 Uru Uu is a gem for wine adventurers and an approachable introduction to Armenia’s native reds.

Personal Pick Highlight
I had the privilege of hosting a class with Victoria Aslanian herself—one of the estate’s owners—which made this bottle not just delicious, but deeply memorable. — 8 hours ago

Ganesh

9.5

So good they made a movie about it — 2 months ago

John Nelmes

8.9

Arena Noir. Great value. — 8 months ago

Ekaterina Ivanova

9.0

Good wine. Price/quality is balances. — 2 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Karas Reserve Areni-Sireni 2023
Ararat Valley, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A striking expression of Armenia’s winemaking heritage, this blend combines 60% Areni and 40% Sireni, two iconic indigenous grapes grown in volcanic soils at the foot of Mount Ararat. Crafted using a mix of traditional Karas (clay amphorae) fermentation and aging in Armenian oak, Karas Winery—led by the Eurnekian family—presents a wine deeply rooted in place and legacy, yet modern in balance and structure.   

Aromas & Flavors
Rich, dark berries and plum notes lead the charge, followed by savory Mediterranean herbs, earthy minerality, and a gentle anchor of spice and volcanic intensity. Despite its depth, the wine maintains admirable freshness and poise.  

Mouthfeel
Texturally generous and layered, with a medium to full body and a refined tannin structure. Its sleek acidity and mineral elements counterbalance its density, resulting in a beautifully balanced and lingering finish. 

Winemaking Notes
This is a signature Armenian reserve bottling—fermented in earthenware amphorae and aged in native oak, allowing both aroma and structure to reflect the unique terroir. Karas consistently honors national traditions while embracing modern refinement.   

Food Pairing
An ideal match for rich meats like lamb or goat, hearty stews, or rustic roasted fare. Its savory spine and mineral grip make it a compelling partner for bold, flavorful dishes.  

Verdict
Karas Reserve Areni-Sireni 2023 merges old-world tradition with contemporary elegance. Its bold personality, cultural authenticity, and structural harmony make it a compelling ambassador for Armenian wine history—truly memorable in every sip. Cheers! — 2 days ago

Peter Sultan

9.1

No notes. Silky white flower palate, medium bodied, mineral core. Saludos Armenia!! Paired beautifully with spicy white bean stew with Harissa & jalepeno. Was inspired after watching Somm 4, which documents an Armenian iconoclast fighting the odds to revive his native wine culture. — 8 months ago

with Owen

Tomo Kurokawa

9.6

Great with venison. Armenian old world wine — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

Karas Red Wine 2022
Armavir Region, Ararat Valley, Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
From the esteemed Karas winery—named for the ancient clay amphorae (“karas”) central to winemaking heritage—comes this dynamic 2022 red blend. A bold yet nuanced mix of 35% Syrah, 35% Malbec, and 30% Cabernet Franc, it harnesses the volcanic soils and extreme continental climate of Armenia’s Ararat Valley. Karas blends centuries-old tradition with sustainable modern winemaking in this compelling entry.  

Aromas & Flavors
Deep aromas of dark cherry, ripe raspberry, and pomegranate, spiced by Syrah’s savory pepper bite and accented by smoky, green-pepper notes from the Cabernet Franc. The palate remains elegant, with fresh dark fruit layered over subtle spice and smoke notes. 

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with bright acidity and smooth, approachable tannins. It finishes with charm, balancing structure and drinkability perfectly. 

Winemaking Notes
Crafted with hand-harvested fruit and fermentation followed by gentle aging—likely in stainless steel or neutral vessels—to preserve purity of fruit. Karas emphasizes eco-conscious practices and respects its heritage while pushing Armenian wine into the global spotlight.  

Food Pairing
Versatile and friendly at the table: pairs beautifully with braised red meats, burgers, pulled pork, earthy pasta, barbecue, or tangy cheese. 

Verdict
Karas Red Wine 2022 is a balanced, vibrant, and terroir-driven blend that showcases Armenia’s winemaking heritage and dynamic present. A compelling value—rich yet accessible and endlessly charming. — 2 days ago

K L

9.2

Paul Hobbs Armenian wine. What an interesting treat. Would definitely get again. Drinks less oaky than a typical chard but super interesting. — 5 months ago

with Matt

Ray Vanderhoff

9.0

Light ruby color with a garnet rim. Bright aromas of red berry fruit and a pleasant funkiness. Flavors of red cherry and plum with hints of black pepper, ash and minerals. Medium body and finish with well balanced acidity and alcohol. Smooth tannins. Underrated varietal. — 8 months ago