In this captivating episode of "Wine Talks," Paul Kalemkiarian sits down with Zack Armen, president of Storica Wines, to explore the fascinating world of Armenian winemaking. Discover how Armenia is experiencing a renaissance of wine production, blending rich historical traditions with modern techniques. Zack shares the incredible journey of rediscovering Armenia's ancient winemaking roots, including its claim as the birthplace of wine with the discovery of the world's oldest winemaking site at Areni-1 cave.
Zack reveals how diaspora Armenians are driving this movement, committing their time, energy, and families to revitalize Armenian wine. They discuss the challenges of bringing a new wine region to the competitive U.S. market and finding creative ways to introduce consumers to unique Armenian varietals like Voskehat and Areni. From the impact of geography on wine quality to the importance of storytelling in the wine industry, this episode is brimming with inspiration for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Other episode highlights include:
The story behind Storica Wines' impressive growth, expanding to 26 states in just a few years.
The fusion of ancient winemaking traditions with modern, Western-oriented styles.
The role of high-altitude Armenian vineyards and diverse terroir in producing complex and expressive wines.
A deeper look into the altruistic side of Armenian winemaking, where supporting local farmers and communities is a top priority.
The evolving consumer interest in wines from niche wine regions and the importance of education in building awareness.
Paul and Zack also discuss the role of tourism in promoting Armenian wine and how collaboration with organizations like USAID is helping to spread the story of Armenian winemaking to the world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of wine, culture, and history. Don't miss the compelling insights and anecdotes that shed light on Armenia's emergence as a global wine region! Cheers! 🍷
