When Wine and Words Meet in a “Dream”: Winemakers Share Their Philosophy on Life, Art, and Tradition (Photos)

Vine & Wine Foundation of Armenia, established ten years ago, aims to strengthen Armenia’s position on the international wine map as one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. The Foundation plays a vital role in connecting the government, private sector, local winemakers, and the global wine community. Its work promotes Armenian wine both at home and abroad, increases export potential, fosters wine tourism, and preserves Armenia’s unique grape varieties.

Zaruhi Muradyan, Executive Director of the Foundation, highlights a key mission:

“Armenian winemaking has experienced a true revival in recent years. Our land offers a rare combination of high-altitude terroirs, volcanic soils, native grape varieties, and deep-rooted history, making us uniquely positioned to present Armenia as a world-class winemaking country. Wine, for us, has never been just a drink. It is part of our identity, culture, and heritage.”

Six Wineries, Six Stories

On June 21 and 22, six Armenian wineries will be featured at Yeraz Park, where they will offer tastings, share stories, and present their wines for sale.

Alexandrea Winery

Founded in 2017 by American-Armenian entrepreneur Adam Kablanian, Alexandrea Winery blends passion with innovation. Kablanyan’s vision is rooted in empowering Armenia’s economy through world-class viticulture.

“Wines should reflect their origin. Ours express the soul of Armenian soil, climate, and culture.”

Using native and international grape varieties adapted to the local terroir, Alexandrea is redefining Armenia’s global wine reputation.

MOONQ

Every bottle begins with a dream. MOONQ was born from Tevan Poghosyan’s personal hobby in 2004 and became a full-fledged family business in 2021.

MOONQ is the only Armenian winery producing wine from the native Pomegranate grape variety. Their limited-edition wines embody creativity, resilience, and community revival.

“Every winemaker is a romantic, more artist than entrepreneur,” says Poghosyan.

Karas Wines

As one of the pioneers of Armenia’s modern wine renaissance, Karas Wines helped reshape the image of Armenian wine. Founded in 2010, the company grows 28 grape varieties in the volcanic soils of the Ararat Valley.

“Good wine, like a good book, unfolds slowly over time,” says Vardges Hoveyan, Sales and Marketing Director.

“At Karas, we believe wine and literature share the same purpose, telling a story.”

With more than 22 wines in its portfolio, Karas celebrates Armenian heritage through quality and innovation.

Mijnaberd Alco

A winemaking legacy passed through three generations. Based in Yerevan, Mijnaberd combines ancestral knowledge with modern techniques, producing wines and spirits from grapes and wild mountain fruits, free of additives and full of story.

“Wine is a language,” says Sona Avetisyan, Marketing Manager.

“Through it, we speak of our roots, our culture, our nature. Books, wine, and jazz, they create the perfect conversation.”

Voskeni Wines

Established in 1925, Voskeni is a family-run winery devoted to honoring and preserving Armenian winemaking traditions. Their philosophy centers on land, wine, and family, working with local grape varieties to bottle Armenia’s essence.

“Every glass of Voskeni tells a story, a story of dreams turned into a legacy,” say the Matevosyan family.

AWA Wines

AWA Wines blends ancient Armenian winemaking with modern techniques, cultivating native grapes in Vayots Dzor in collaboration with a Swiss winery. The brand champions organic agriculture, crafting wines that reflect Armenia’s past and future.

Visitors are welcome to tour the winery, explore the vineyards, and taste the wines in a serene garden setting.

“Our values, sustainability, teamwork, and quality, are poured into every bottle.”

Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, Newmag Summerfest 2025 offers a unique experience where books, wine, and jazz come together in perfect harmony. Each glass tells a story, and every bottle holds a dream.