Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Gevorkian Winery, Makhani Reserve 2019
Armenia 🇦🇲

Overview
A bold red blend of indigenous Armenian grapes — Areni, Haghtanak, Kakhet, and Karmrahyut — crafted using the ancient Kakhani method (three-month grape withering before vinification). This traditional approach, combined with aging in Armenian oak, makes it one of the most unique expressions of Armenia’s resurgent wine culture.

Aromas & Flavors
The nose opens with withered grapes and candied fruits, layered with blackberry jam, prunes, vanilla, and powdered cocoa. The palate continues with rich black fruits, mahogany, and leather, while notes of spice and dark chocolate build depth.

Mouthfeel
Robust, full-bodied, with structured tannins and pleasant acidity. It carries warmth from its high alcohol (16% ABV), bordering on fortified in style. Multilayered and powerful, the wine evolves in the glass but benefits from extended air contact.

Winemaking Notes
Aged 6 months in new Armenian oak, then an additional 18 months in seasoned barrels. This unique use of century-old oak imparts a distinct, rustic backbone. 2019 is drinkable now but will likely show best by 2027.

Food Pairing
Pairs beautifully with fatty steaks, venison, matured cheeses, cream-based desserts, or even high-cocoa dark chocolate (75–85%). Its powerful structure makes it highly versatile for bold gastronomy.

Verdict
A muscular, complex red that captures Armenia’s ancient heritage and modern ambition in winemaking. A true statement wine — unforgettable and worth cellaring. — 2 months ago

Neil Blaze

9.2

My first Armenian wine, which is not surprising since this is the only one that seems to be readily available in the US. Medium bodied, with red fruit and floral aromas on the nose. Darker fruit on the palate with some vanilla and spice flavors. Velvety texture. It took a bit to open up, but once it did I couldn't put my glass down. 95% Areni, 5% Tozot. 1/8/23. — 3 years ago

John Nelmes

8.9

Arena Noir. Great value. — 8 months ago

Tomo Kurokawa

9.6

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

Ellen Clifford

8.9

There is a punch of pepper—green, black, and pink, and a smooth cocoa finish. Undercurrents of damp clay and pencil circulate through. It is bright and surprisingly light on its toes, and the tannins are smooth and unobtrusively integrated. With time, the nose grows a mocha note, speaking to both the roasty coffee bean notes and the cocoa. — 2 years ago

Joe Santiago

8.9

Deep red and oddly hoppy aftertaste. Plums and cranberries with a silky feel. — 3 years ago

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

Mr Matt

9.0

Having with Noah — 9 months ago

Caleb Krell

9.0

Charcuterie and cherries. — 3 years ago

heidi schlegel

9.5

Dry and delightful! Perfect with an Armenian mezza. — 3 years ago