From Yerevan: Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Dinner

Planning a day trip from Yerevan that combines history, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the best Armenian wines? This Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Dinner offers exactly that, giving you a chance to explore Armenia’s oldest winemaking traditions alongside its iconic sights—all in one well-organized package. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply love discovering new cultures through their food and drink, this experience packs in notable highlights that make it worth considering.

What really caught our eye was the chance to visit the world’s oldest known winery at Areni Cave, a site that’s over 6,000 years old. Pairing that with tastings of handcrafted wines and a gourmet dinner at a boutique winery makes for a memorable day. One potential downside? The itinerary packs quite a bit into 8 hours, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full, active schedule. This tour suits travelers eager to combine Armenia’s ancient history with its vibrant wine scene, especially if they’re after authentic experiences rather than a quick peek.

Key Points

• Historic significance: Visit the world’s oldest winery at Areni Cave, a must-see for history buffs and wine lovers alike.
• Taste local wines and cheeses: Enjoy curated tastings paired with Armenian cheeses, highlighting local flavors.
• Scenic stops: Khor Virap offers stunning Mount Ararat views and a spiritual atmosphere, perfect for photos.
• Gourmet dinner: End the day with a gourmet meal and wine pairing at a charming boutique winery.
• Private group experience: Personalized attention from guides and a flexible schedule.
• Value for the price: The combination of multiple sites, tastings, and dinner makes this a comprehensive Armenia wine tour.

A full breakdown of the experience

Starting point: Yerevan pickup

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Yerevan, which makes transportation seamless. The small group setting ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide (speaking English or Russian) will set the tone for a relaxed yet informative day.

First stop: Tushpa Wine Cellar

After leaving the city, you’ll head to Tushpa Wine Cellar—a dedicated space for Armenian wines that emphasizes handcrafted, local varieties. Here, you’ll spend about two hours tasting different wines and learning about Armenia’s ancient winemaking techniques, some of which have been passed down for generations. Reviewers mention that the cellar’s knowledgeable staff make explanations approachable, and the pairing with Armenian cheeses really enhances the tasting experience.

Khor Virap Monastery

Next, a brief stop at Khor Virap offers both historical insight and picture-perfect scenery. Thanks to its location with Mount Ararat towering in the background, this monastery is a favorite for visitors wanting iconic photos. The tour includes a guided visit, roughly an hour long, where your guide will share the site’s significance—both spiritual and historical. Many reviewers appreciate the chance to stand where ancient pilgrims once did and enjoy the panoramic views that make this stop truly special.

Areni-1 Cave: The oldest winery

The highlight for many is the visit to Areni Cave, home to the world’s oldest known winery—dating back over 6,000 years. You’ll walk through the archaeological site, imagining the winemakers of the past crafting their wines in this fascinating setting. This part of the tour is great for history lovers and those intrigued by ancient traditions. Reviewers note that the guide provides engaging commentary, helping visitors understand the significance of the site.

Wine tasting at Old Bridge Winery

As the sun begins to set, the group arrives at Old Bridge Winery, a boutique spot that offers a more intimate, luxurious dinner experience. Here, you’ll indulge in a gourmet dinner paired with the finest local wines, served in a rustic yet charming setting. The three-hour tasting session allows for a relaxed, social atmosphere and a chance to savor a variety of wines while enjoying traditional Armenian dishes. Guests often mention the warm hospitality and the quality of the wines, which range from reds to whites.

Return to Yerevan

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and sightseeing, you’ll be dropped back at your accommodation in Yerevan, tired but enriched with new knowledge and flavors.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour’s inclusions—wine tasting sessions, a gourmet dinner, guided visits to key sites, and pickup—offer great value for the price. Having a guide who can explain the significance of each location elevates the experience, turning it into more than just a sightseeing trip. The private group setup ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the day at your own pace.

Practical details and tips

• Price: $458 per person, which might seem high, but considering the multiple tastings, dinner, and private guides, it’s competitive for an all-day, immersive experience.
• Duration: 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day of activity—good walking shoes are a must.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—a helpful option if your plans change.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, water—simple essentials for a day outdoors.
• Age restrictions: Only for guests over 18 for wine tasting, and not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

Authentic insights from reviews

Guests who’ve taken this tour appreciate the well-curated itinerary and the chance to see Armenia’s ancient winemaking roots firsthand. One reviewer mentioned the “stunning views” at Khor Virap and the uniqueness of walking through the 6,000-year-old Areni Cave—something truly memorable. Others highlighted the “friendly, knowledgeable guides,” which made the entire experience both educational and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Armenia’s cultural heritage. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and socializing in a small group setting. If your main goal is a relaxed, leisurely experience, this might be slightly intense, but for those eager to enjoy Armenia’s traditions, it’s a winner.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of historic sites, authentic wine tastings, and a luxurious dinner—all with the convenience of a private, guided experience. It’s a well-rounded way to deepen your appreciation of Armenia’s cultural landscape, especially if you’re fascinated by how ancient traditions influence modern life.

While the itinerary packs in a lot, it’s designed to give you a meaningful, memorable day without feeling rushed. The visits to Areni Cave and Khor Virap are standout moments, complemented by the chance to sample some of Armenia’s finest wines in a cozy setting. This tour provides excellent value for those looking for an authentic, enriching experience beyond just sightseeing.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Yerevan are part of the package, making logistics simple.

How long is the winery tasting at Tushpa?
The tasting session at Tushpa Wine Cellar lasts about two hours, giving enough time to enjoy several wines and learn about Armenian winemaking.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll want to capture the stunning views at Khor Virap and the archaeological site at Areni Cave.

Are meals included?
Yes, a gourmet dinner paired with wine is included at Old Bridge Winery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the wine tasting is only for guests over 18, and the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Russian, providing clear explanations and engaging commentary.

Is there a refund option?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much free time is there at each stop?
Stops are scheduled for about one to two hours, enough to explore, take photos, and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

Will I get enough wine during tastings?
Yes, the tastings are curated for quality and variety, and paired with Armenian cheeses, making each stop enjoyable.

This tour is a fantastic way to combine Armenia’s ancient wine heritage with its scenic landscapes and historical marvels. Perfect for curious travelers eager to taste and learn in a relaxed yet engaging environment.