INDIGENOUS ARMENIAN VARIETIES

Armenia is home to over 400 ancient indigenous varieties which have been cultivated in the region for millennia, and have rarely been seen beyond the Caucuses. Yacoubian-Hobbs cultivates four of these varieties at our estate vineyard in Vayots Dzor.

Hand holding a bunch of Areni wine grapes with harvest bins in the background.

ARENI

An ancient variety indigenous to Armenia, Areni has adapted perfectly to the high altitude, mountainous region of Vayots Dzor, where the vines thrive on the rocky, mineral-rich, volcanic soils. This late-ripening grape makes fresh, elegantly structured wines with bright red fruit flavors and a characteristic black pepper spice.

Close-up of a green Voskehat grape leaf with sunlight shining through, showing the leaf's veins and shadow.

VOSKEHAT

Considered the emblematic white variety of Armenia, voskehat thrives in high-altitude, rocky soils and is known for its longevity with vines living well past 100 years. Thick-skinned berries yield complex and expressive aromatics including the fresh scent of the Armenian Snowdrop flower.

ADDITIONAL VARIETIES

KAKHET (RED)

A late ripening indigenous variety, showcasing a dark, concentrated color with delicate floral aromas accented by notes of forest fruits and a pronounced tannic structure. Its high level of natural acidity lends vibrancy and ageability to the finished wines.

Yacoubian-Hobbs logo, featuring stylized Armenian letters Y and H intertwined like a grapevine

KHATUNI (WHITE)

A rare variety found primarily in the high mountains of Vayots Dzor. Medium sized, thick-skinned berries give a notable crispness and unique floral expression to the wine.