Origins Wine Magazine

🍷 Introducing TOR-TORI from 🍇

Step into the vibrant future of Armenian winemaking and indulge in the taste of our long-forgotten Armenian variety. TOR-TORI is a wine that brings the echoes of the past to life with every sip.

Immerse yourself in a world of flavors with TOR-TORI. This playful ruby-colored wine delights the senses with aromas of sumptuous cherries, plum, blueberry, and a tantalizing hint of black pepper. As you savor each sip, subtle notes of vanilla dance alongside the richness of oaky dark chocolate, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Crafted with precision, TOR-TORI combines the distinctive characteristics of the indigenous Areni grape with a 10% touch of Syrah, resulting in a wine that is both flavorful and perfectly balanced. Its velvety tannins and lasting finish will leave a lasting impression on your palate.

Experience the unique taste of TOR-TORI and discover the artistry of Armenian winemaking. Raise a glass to the vibrant flavors and rich heritage of

Photo credit

🍇 Unveiling the captivating allure of Areni, Armenia's treasured grape varietal! With a rich heritage dating back thousands of years, Areni captures the essence of Armenian winemaking in every glass. Prepare to be enthralled by its unique flavors and the stories it holds.

Areni grapes, nurtured in the rugged landscapes of Armenia, bear witness to the country's ancient viticulture traditions. The vineyards, nestled in the breathtaking high-altitude regions, lend their distinctive character to the grapes, resulting in wines that are both elegant and full-bodied.

Delight in the ruby-red hues and tantalizing aromas that dance from the glass as you explore Areni wines. The palate is treated to a harmonious medley of red fruit flavors, accented by hints of spice and earthy undertones. Each sip tells a tale of passion, resilience, and the resilient spirit of the Armenian people.

Areni wines embody the perfect balance of tradition and innovation, as skilled winemakers apply modern techniques while honoring the wisdom passed down through generations. This dedication brings forth wines that not only reflect the distinct terroir but also celebrate the cultural heritage of Armenia.

Join us in raising a glass to Areni and discover the allure of this exceptional grape varietal. Let its flavors transport you to the vineyards of Armenia, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary winemaking expertise. Cheers to the wonders of Areni! 🍷🇦🇲

🍷Meet Tushpa Wine Cellar, where passion meets perfection! Explore the extraordinary world of Armenian winemaking through the exceptional offerings of Tushpa Wines. From the vineyards nestled in the fertile Ararat Valley to the skilled hands of their winemakers, each bottle encapsulates the essence of Armenian terroir.

Tushpa Wines takes pride in crafting wines that are a true reflection of their heritage. Their portfolio showcases a remarkable range of varietals, from rich reds to crisp whites, each one meticulously crafted to bring out the best of Armenian grapes. With every sip, you'll experience the harmony of flavors, the balance of acidity, and the elegance that defines Tushpa Wines.

From the moment the grapes are handpicked to the careful aging process, Tushpa Wines upholds the highest standards of winemaking. Their commitment to quality shines through in every bottle, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey through the captivating flavors and aromas that grace their wines.

Visit their website at tushpawines.com to explore their collection, learn about their winemaking philosophy, and discover the stories behind each label. Join us in raising a glass to Tushpa Wines and celebrate the exceptional craftsmanship of Armenian winemaking! 🥂🇦🇲

Photo credit Tushpa Wine Cellar

🧀 Discover the delightful world of Armenian cheese, where centuries of tradition and a passion for craftsmanship come together to create pure cheesy bliss. From creamy textures to robust flavors, Armenian cheese offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will satisfy any cheese lover's cravings.

Explore the crumbly goodness of "Lori," a flavorful cheese with hints of herbs and spices. Every bite of Armenian cheese is a journey through the country's cultural heritage and culinary excellence.

Armenian cheese reflects the unique terroir and the meticulous care that goes into its production. The high-quality milk sourced from local farms, combined with traditional techniques, results in cheeses that are a true representation of the land's bounty.

Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with fresh fruits and nuts, or incorporated into mouthwatering dishes, Armenian cheese elevates any culinary experience. It's time to embrace the savory, tangy, and sometimes salty flavors that make Armenian cheese an irresistible treat.

🌿 Experience the magic of Vayots Dzor, the captivating winemaking region of Armenia! 🍇 Nestled amidst majestic mountains and picturesque landscapes, this enchanting land is home to vineyards that produce some of Armenia's finest wines.

Explore the rugged beauty of Vayots Dzor as you wander through rows of vineyards, where ancient grape varietals flourish under the sun-kissed skies. The unique terroir, with its rocky soils and favorable microclimate, imparts a distinct character to the wines that are born here.

Vayots Dzor wines captivate the senses with their depth, complexity, and unparalleled flavors. From robust reds to elegant whites, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and passion. Indulge in the velvety textures, vibrant fruit profiles, and subtle hints of spice that define the wines from this region.

🍷 Introducing a wine that embodies the artistry of winemaking - Gregorian/Գրեգորյան ! 🌟 Crafted with passion and precision, each bottle tells a story of tradition, innovation, and unparalleled quality. From the vineyards nestled in the picturesque Armenian countryside to the skilled hands of the winemakers, every detail is meticulously cared for to bring you an exceptional wine experience.

Explore the range of captivating flavors and aromas offered by Gregorian Wine. From elegant reds to crisp whites, their portfolio showcases the diversity and richness of Armenian grape varietals. Indulge in the smooth tannins, vibrant fruit profiles, and subtle notes that harmonize on the palate, leaving a lasting impression.

With a deep respect for the land and a commitment to sustainable practices, Gregorian Wine embraces the essence of terroir in every bottle. Each sip is an invitation to discover the unique character of Armenian winemaking, where ancient traditions meet modern expertise.

Visit their website at www.gregorian.am to explore their collection, learn about their winemaking philosophy, and embark on a journey into the world of Armenian wine. Join us in raising a glass to the extraordinary craftsmanship of Gregorian Wine. Cheers! 🥂

KOOR Wines from Highland Cellars has absorbed the centuries-old traditions of wine-producing Armenia and its creators’ love for this land. The successful launch of Koor wine production has become possible due to several factors: the great desire of its founders - the natives of Armenia and their friends, to preserve the local winemaking traditions as well as to contribute to the revival of wine-drinking culture of one of the oldest wine regions in the world; involvement of high-class experts to the production, each of whom was responsible for a particular stage of wine production, starting from the selection of grapes and the area of its growth to the manufacturing techniques and wine labels design.

Koor entered the Armenian wine market in 2015. Made exclusively from the Armenian grape varieties, as a tribute to the Armenian heritage, Koor embodies both the centuries-old secrets and the latest technologies of winemaking.

An insightful article by Los Angeles Times on wines 🍷🇦🇲

Armenian wine may be thousands of years old, but it's never been more in vogue It's no surprise that Los Angeles, home to a thriving Armenian community, proves one of the best places to try Old World Armenian wines, which use traditional methods to create robust reds and effervescent orange and natural wines.

Voskehat, an indigenous Armenian grape varietal, is a true jewel of the country's winemaking heritage. Known for its exceptional quality and unique characteristics, Voskehat showcases the essence of Armenian terroir in every sip.

The name "Voskehat" translates to "golden berry," a fitting description for the beautiful golden-colored grapes that adorn the vineyards. Grown in the high-altitude regions of Armenia, Voskehat grapes thrive in the cool climate and volcanic soil, which contribute to the grape's distinct flavor profile.

With its medium-sized clusters, Voskehat offers winemakers a perfect balance of acidity and sugar levels. This results in wines that exhibit a harmonious combination of vibrant freshness, complexity, and well-rounded structure. The aromas of Voskehat wines are often reminiscent of apricots, peaches, wildflowers, and a touch of herbal notes, creating an enticing sensory experience.

Voskehat wines are versatile, with the ability to be crafted into different styles, including dry, semi-dry, and dessert wines. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods, Voskehat wines complement an array of culinary delights, showcasing their ability to enhance the dining experience.

Exploring the rich heritage and flavors of Voskehat is a journey into the heart of Armenian winemaking. With its distinctive character and undeniable quality, Voskehat continues to captivate wine enthusiasts and showcase the remarkable potential of Armenian wine production. Raise a glass of Voskehat and immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of this remarkable grape varietal from the land of ancient winemaking.

"One should always live with hope. Age does not matter. If you plan to do something and believe in its success you will succeed. I do believe in it".

59-year-old Sarkis Yazdjian comes from Syria. In the 1980s, he studied as an electrician-engineer at the Yerevan Polytechnic Institute and went back to Aleppo, where he had been running a plastic recycling plant until 2012. However, the war made Sarkis leave Syria and move to Armenia with his family. Here Sarkis had to start from scratch.

Photo credit

Mshosh is a delicious lentil and dried fruit medley that can be enjoyed as an accompaniment alongside a meal, as a salad, or on its own!

Find the recipe on page 204 of the , or in the latest issue of !

Photo credit

What’s on the menu this weekend? We’re toasting with 🍷

Karas Red Blend: A tribute and symbol of the cultural connection between Armenians and our land ❤

This vibrant wine has a deep ruby color, notes of cherries, raspberries, fresh plums and pink pepper.

Photo credit

"We are currently running about eight to 10 hectares (20 to 25 acres). Our focus is mainly on indigenous varieties—Areni is our favored red, with three or four white varieties for the white blend. Soils are limestone with mica minerals and volcanic rock—extremely well-drained, high elevation, and…mountain-goat friendly." - Paul Hobbs,

Read the full interview with Paul Hobbs here 👉 https://originswinemag.com/en/features/paul-hobbs-an-iconic-partnership

We wouldn't be a proper if we didn't introduce you to the word in .

So far, researchers have catalogued 400 indigenous varieties from a cache of wild vines cultivated by early Armenians.

With new wines made from ancient varieties of grapes, this is an important word to know during your next visit to . 🍷

Meet 🍷👇

"When we first visited the region of Yeghegnadzor, where we had decided to found our vineyards there was only a mountainous deserted area which had never been cultivated before. It was rather hard to imagine and believe that one can create a fruitful vineyard there. Now, looking back after nearly 20 years of hard work, it's with an enormous pride that we look at our well cultivated vineyards which pass an inspection even from the demanding eye of our father. We started as a family business in 1998, where everybody knows the importance of his or her role. We established our own vineyards, took small steps forward, trying to act creatively paying attention to every detail, quality and dedication. Wine production has taught us, both the young and the older generations, to work hard and work together to enjoy the pleasure of the outcome, to listen to each other, respect each other's opinions and generate an immense gratitude and love towards our homeland. With a deep respect for the traditions and the willingness to learn, we try to combine the old winemaking traditions that each inhabitant of Yeghegnadzor has inherited genetically from his ancestors, with the best available winemaking techniques and wine culture."

As we move into the warmer season, we wanted to share with you the Summer Tolma recipe by the The Vegan Armenian Kitchen Cookbook
Summer Tolma is one of four types of tolma featured in The Vegan Armenian Kitchen Cookbook, and as it is often included as part of the Easter menu (albeit as a side), I wanted to share the recipe that has been passed down three generations in my family. While this type is usually served cold with lemon wedges, feel free to enjoy them warm as a main as well!

Ingredients:

75 preserved grape leaves (recipe for homemade here), plus 12 for lining the pot (top and bottom), rinsed
4 cups chopped onions
1 cup short-grain white rice
1/2 tsp dried mint
3/4 to 1 cup Tazah Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or any good quality olive oil)
1/4 bunch fresh dill, chopped, or 1 tsp dried dill
Juice of one lemon
Coarse sea salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups warm water

Directions:
- Cook onions in a large pot on low-medium heat until they are translucent, 7 to 10 minutes. Add salt and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add rice and stir well, cooking together for a few minutes.
- Pour in oil, stir well, and add black pepper. Turn off heat and stir in juice of one lemon, dill, and dried mint. Remove the pot from heat and allow it to cool.
From the grape leaves, select 12 smaller or damaged ones and set aside. Use half of these to line the bottom of an oven-safe pot or dish.
- Organize your workstation: bring the cooled off pot of rice, grape leaves, and baking pot or dish.
- Place a grape leaf in your palm or on a flat plate, veiny
side facing up, and gently remove the stem piece that sticks out. Depending on the size of the leaves, place 1⁄2 to 1 tbsp of the rice mixture on the side closest to where the stem was and roll them tightly. Pack them tightly in the pot, working in circles, layer by layer, only beginning a new layer once there is no room left.
- Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Pour the leftover oil from the rice mixture over the rolled grape leaves. Spread the remaining smaller or damaged grape leaves over the rolled ones and place a large heavy plate on top.
- Pour in the warm water and cover the pot. Cook for one and a half hours, and using oven mitts, remove the plate but leave the grape leaves in and secure the lid on again. Allow the stuffed grape leaves to cool completely, then remove the top layer of leaves.
- When ready to serve, remove the rolled grape leaves gently from the pot, arrange them on a tray, pour over the liquid remaining from the pot, and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy!

Located at the southeastern end of , the region of Vayots Dzor is home to a rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can find evidence of ancient, medieval, and modern societies throughout Vayots Dzor. The province is the leader in Armenian wine production in export and cultivation. The region is home to several grape varieties that make many exceptional wines.

In 2007, the discovery of the Areni-1 cave in the village of Areni led archeologists to unearth fermentation vats, a wine press, pottery shards, and storage jars at least 6,100 years old. Although the current resurgence of the Armenian wine industry may be young, these findings show that viticulture is buried not only in the land but also in the local's heritage. Visits to destinations such as the Yeghegnadzor Regional Museum allow travelers to learn more about the history of winemaking in the region. In addition, the remarkable views in the province offer many ideal locations for a refreshing sip of wine, making it hard to tell which is more enchanting--the history, geography, or the wine.

Need delicious recipes for lent? The classic red lentil Patties by is one of our favourites!

What are some of your must haves?