Shopping with Brandy: Tour to Brandy factories and markets

Exploring Armenia’s Spirit and Souvenirs: A Review of the “Shopping with Brandy” Tour

When it comes to Armenia, most people think of its ancient monasteries and stunning landscapes. However, this tour offers a different, equally fascinating side—visiting iconic brandy factories and exploring lively markets. Designed as a half-day experience, it blends history, taste, and local shopping, all in a comfortable private setting.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of expert-guided visits to legendary distilleries with authentic market excursions—Vernissage and GUM—giving you a taste of local life and craftsmanship. Plus, traveling in a sleek Mercedes-Benz ensures a smooth, relaxing journey.

One potential consideration? The tour’s focus on shopping and tastings means it may not suit those seeking heavy historical narration or extensive sightseeing. Still, if you’re a fan of good drinks, unique souvenirs, and getting a snapshot of everyday Armenian culture, this trip hits the mark.

Ideal for travelers who appreciate quality experiences over crowds, those interested in Armenian spirits, or anyone looking to combine cultural insight with personal indulgence.

Key Points

• Exclusive visits to the renowned Noy and Ararat Brandy factories, with tastings included.
• Authentic shopping at Armenia’s main market, GUM, offering fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.
• Vernissage market provides a chance to pick up handmade souvenirs and artistic crafts.
• Comfortable transport in a private Mercedes-Benz, with Wi-Fi, photo services, and extra amenities.
• Expert guidance enhances the experience, with guides fluent in English, Russian, and Armenian.
• The tour offers great value considering factory tours, tastings, shopping, and private transportation all included.

An In-Depth Look at the “Shopping with Brandy” Tour

This 4.5-hour private tour is designed for those who want to combine tasting Armenia’s most famous brandies with experiencing local markets in Yerevan. For a set price of $190 per group (up to 6 people), the tour provides a tailored, immersive experience that combines culture, history, and shopping, all wrapped in the comfort of a luxury vehicle.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Yerevan, which is a huge plus—no need to navigate public transport or worry about directions. Gregory, the guide, is praised for his professionalism and knowledge, making the journey engaging and informative. The Mercedes-Benz ensures a smooth ride with Wi-Fi, extra amenities like a thermos for coffee, chargers, umbrellas, and even blankets. This attention to comfort means you can relax and enjoy the scenery, especially if the weather is unpredictable.

Visiting the Noy Brandy Factory

The first stop is the Noy Brandy Factory, located conveniently in front of the Ararat Factory, near the City Hall and Victory Bridge. Built in 1877 by merchant Nerses Tairian, this site is steeped in history. The tour inside takes you through the cellar, catacombs, and tasting room, giving an authentic feel of Armenia’s long-standing tradition of brandy making.

What sets Noy apart is its connection to legendary artist O. Ayvazovsky, who helped the founder in the early days—add a touch of Armenian culture and history to your tasting experience. You’ll have the chance to purchase souvenirs from the on-site shop, which is well-stocked and offers good quality products.

The Ararat Brandy Factory

Next, you visit the Ararat Brandy Factory, an institution regarded as Armenia’s most famous brandy producer. Established in 1887, the factory’s history is intertwined with Armenia’s national identity. The story of how Nikolai Shustov acquired and elevated the brandy, gaining international fame and a gold medal at the 1900 “Blind Tasting” in France, adds a layer of prestige.

Inside, the museum showcases the evolution of Armenian cognac, and you’ll enjoy a tasting session in the dedicated room. The factory’s reputation is well-earned—legend has it that Winston Churchill was a fan, and the product has consistently been awarded the Product of the Year in Russia. Buying a bottle here isn’t just a souvenir; it’s a taste of Armenian history.

Market Visits: GUM and Vernissage

After the factory tours, the sightseeing shifts to Armenia’s bustling markets. The GUM Market on Khorenatsi street is considered the city’s main marketplace, dating back to the Soviet era. It’s the perfect place to browse fresh fruits, dried fruits, Armenian bread-lavash, meats, and fish—local vendors sell directly from their first village hands, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

You’ll love the lively atmosphere and opportunity to pick up local produce or souvenirs. According to reviews, this market offers a chance to see everyday Armenian life and savor regional flavors.

Close by is Vernissage, near Republic Square. Originally started in 1980 as an art market for local painters, it grew into a vibrant bazaar of Armenian arts and crafts. Today, it’s a treasure trove of handmade souvenirs, jewelry, textiles, and art. It’s perfect for finding unique gifts and understanding Armenia’s artistic traditions. The market’s open-air setup and wide range of vendors make it a fun, relaxed shopping experience.

Final Return and Reflection

After a full morning of tastings, sightseeing, and shopping, the tour concludes with a drop-off back at your accommodation in Yerevan. The flexibility of the private tour allows you to customize the experience or ask guides questions along the way.

Why This Tour Offers Value

The cost of $190 per group covers a lot: private transportation, visits to two legendary brandy factories, tastings, market explorations, and a knowledgeable guide. Compared to standalone factory visits or market visits, this package offers convenience and a curated experience, perfect for those who want authenticity without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

The inclusion of extras like Wi-Fi, photo service, and amenities such as chargers and umbrellas show attention to detail, making it easy to focus on enjoying the day. You’ll also appreciate that tickets for the factories are not included—giving you the flexibility to choose whether to purchase bottles or souvenirs without hidden costs.

The Review from Others

The one review available praises the guide, Mrs. Ani, for her warmth, knowledge, and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience. The traveler from Slovakia mentioned that everything was “excellent,” from the transport to the guide’s attitude. Such feedback suggests the tour is well-organized and guided by professionals who genuinely care about visitors’ experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a fan of spirits and local craftsmanship, this tour is a fantastic way to learn about Armenia’s most famous exports while exploring the vibrant markets that reflect the local lifestyle. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy guided experiences that blend history, tasting, and shopping in a relaxed, private setting.

Travelers looking for a comprehensive half-day in Yerevan—covering key cultural highlights without the rush—will find this tour offers excellent value. Plus, the opportunity to purchase authentic Armenian brandy and souvenirs directly from the source makes it a memorable, tangible connection to the country.

However, if you prefer a more extensive sightseeing itinerary or are traveling with children under 18, this experience might feel a bit focused on adult interests. It’s best suited for those eager to indulge in Armenia’s famed brandy culture and experience local markets firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the factory visits included in the price?
No, tickets for the factories are not included. You’ll pay for those separately at each location, but the guide will assist with the arrangements.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes. Even if you don’t consume alcohol, the tour offers fascinating insights into Armenia’s brandy history and an opportunity to explore local markets and crafts.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for private groups up to 6 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I choose a different pickup time?
Yes, check availability for starting times and coordinate with the guide. The experience is flexible within the schedule.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour features a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz, equipped with Wi-Fi and extra amenities like blankets and chargers.

How long do the visits to the factories last?
The factory sightseeing (including tastings) lasts about an hour, allowing enough time to enjoy the process and ask questions.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and the weather. The markets are outdoors, so dress accordingly.

Is this tour good for families?
It’s primarily suitable for adults; children under 18 might not find it as engaging, especially since factory tastings are involved.

Final Takeaway

This tour offers a rare glimpse into Armenia’s world-class brandy production alongside the chance to explore two essential markets in Yerevan. It combines culinary heritage, local shopping, and cultural insight in a relaxed, private setting—making it ideal for curious travelers, spirit enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to connect deeply with Armenian culture.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, top-notch vehicle comfort, and authentic experiences makes this a worthwhile investment for a memorable half-day. Whether you’re after a souvenir bottle, a taste of history, or a genuine look at local life, this tour covers all bases with style and substance.